GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The community is grieving the tragic and unexpected loss of Dezarae Wilks, known lovingly as Dezi, who passed away early Saturday morning, November 15, 2025. Her sudden death has left family, friends, and neighbors shattered, as they mourn a woman remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her seven children.
What Happened
Details surrounding the circumstances of Dezarae Wilks’ passing have not been publicly released, but family members confirmed that her death was both sudden and unexpected. The news has deeply shaken the Grand Rapids community, where Dezi was known as a devoted mother, a dependable friend, and a woman whose heart was always open to others.
As loved ones prepare for funeral arrangements, the family has asked for community support to help honor her life.
Who Was Dezarae “Dezi” Wilks
At just — Dezi leaves behind a legacy defined by love, resilience, and compassion. She was a single mother to seven beautiful children, whom she adored and dedicated her life to. Those closest to her describe her as a woman who always put her children first, even in the hardest of times.
Her family remembers her as a loving daughter, a supportive sister, and someone with an unshakeable sense of loyalty. Dezi had a natural gift for making people feel seen, heard, and cared for. Whether checking in on a friend, offering encouragement, or sharing her warm smile, she made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Her Legacy of Strength, Love, and Kindness
Dezarae’s life revolved around caring for others. Friends say she had a way of spreading joy just by walking into a room. She was known for her humor, her gentle nature, and her ability to offer comfort even when she was struggling herself.
As a mother, she was fiercely devoted. Every decision she made centered on giving her children love, stability, and the best future possible. Her strength, both quiet and remarkable, inspired those around her.
Her passing leaves an immense void not only in her home but in the wider community she touched with her generosity and kindness.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Tributes for Dezarae Wilks have flooded social media as friends, relatives, and community members express their heartbreak:
“I’m so sorry, Dezarae. I wish I could’ve checked on you or talked to you. I’ll miss you… this breaks my heart. You were the coolest, the best mother, always so caring. You checked up on everyone. I woke up and saw the post saying ‘RIP Dezi,’ and I broke down. We shared so many good memories, and I’ll never forget you.”
Many describe her as “the best mom,” “the sweetest soul,” and “the friend everyone wishes they had.”
Her loss has prompted an outpouring of grief, love, and support for her seven children and her entire family.
How to Support the Family
To help cover funeral expenses and support Dezarae’s children, the family has created a GoFundMe, encouraging friends, loved ones, and community members to contribute in her honor.
Donations can also be sent directly to her father via Cash App: $Larryjlee6868.
Loved ones say that any support — financial or emotional — will help the family navigate this painful and overwhelming time.
What Happens Next
Funeral arrangements for Dezarae “Dezi” Wilks will be announced by the family in the coming days. Community members are invited to participate in memorial gatherings and support events as details are finalized.
The family has requested privacy as they grieve and work through the unimaginable pain of losing Dezi so suddenly.
Dezarae Wilks will be remembered for her laughter, her selflessness, and her fierce love for her children. Though her life ended far too soon, the kindness she showed, the lives she touched, and the family she built ensure that her legacy will live on forever.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
