Anthoné McNeese, Jr.

Anthoné Feliciana McNeese Jr., affectionately known as “Chalk,” 25, of Colton, California, passed away on August 29, 2025, in Union, New Jersey, while visiting his mother during the summer.

Born on August 12, 2000, in Long Beach, he lived courageously with epilepsy since December 2023, facing the challenges of dangerous nocturnal seizures. He passed at approximately 2:40 p.m. EST.

From a young age, Anthoné distinguished himself on both the field and court for the Garcia Grizzlies elementary teams. A two-year tight end and fullback for the football squad, he scored five touchdowns and was named player of the week at least twice, always putting his team first and leading by example. Early on in his football journey, he also played a few memorable games as left tackle for San Bernardino’s Pop Warner team, gaining valuable experience that he would carry forward. On the basketball court, he played power forward and center, racking up countless points, steals, rebounds, and assists that helped transform the Grizzlies from 18th place to an astonishing 2nd in the district. In his very first year, Anthoné was named MVP of the playoffs’ legendary “Brawl” game. During his final season at Garcia, the basketball team's success, bolstered by Anthoné's unselfish play and electric spirit, drew crowds that filled the stands. He collected numerous honors, trophies, and plaques for team spirit, always prioritizing his teammates over himself. That same dedication showed in the classroom as well: Anthoné received the President’s Award for Educational Achievement.

His passion for football continued into middle school, playing defensive tackle for the Jehue Jaguars in 7th grade. He earned player of the week and finished his first season with seven tackles and three sacks, an impressive feat. When Anthoné moved to New Jersey for 8th grade, his talent quickly turned heads, a local high school coach personally visited to recruit him, marking an achievement that reflected both his promise and drive.

In high school, he was always the one who made his teammates laugh and smile before games or at practice. Among friends, he was considered one of the best shooters on the basketball team and the kind of person who everyone liked, even if they didn’t know him well. Despite not playing every game, he was the heart of the team. Anthoné’s warmth, humor, and leadership transformed every team and friend group he joined.

After several strong seasons on both the field and court, Anthoné graduated from Jonathan Dayton High School as part of the Class of 2019, cherishing the friends and memories he made along the way. His laugh alone could cheer up his loved ones. Goofy and contagious, it lifted the spirits of everyone who heard it, a joyful sound that will be missed by all who knew him. He loved being in the mix, always part of every social event, from school plays and sports games to club activities and impromptu gatherings, whether participating or cheering on his friends. That sense of involvement was matched only by his gift for bringing people together. He looked out for those around him, bridged differences, and ensured everyone felt seen and valued.

Anthoné was quietly attentive to the needs of others and often acted without being asked. If there wasn’t enough space on the bike rack, he would lock up a friend’s bike in the remaining spot, willingly sacrificing his own. He opened his home to friends in need, offered steadfast support to those coping with loss, and reached out in kindness to befriend and shield classmates who felt isolated or bullied. These quiet acts, large and small, were the hallmarks of his loyalty and care. His wisdom made him someone friends and family could always turn to. His brother confided in him, his father sought out his counsel, while friends found comfort and guidance in his company.

One of his proudest, and most recent, achievements was reuniting his childhood friends in New Jersey after years apart; his friends joked that Anthoné was “the Messiah”, the one who brought everyone back together. His presence rekindled old bonds and inspired those around him to reconnect and cherish each other’s company, a testament to the positive and lasting influence he had in every circle of his life.

Anthoné enjoyed car meets, racing, and spending time with friends, whether at holiday gatherings, BBQs, or pool parties. He was passionate about gaming and liked capturing memories through photography. He valued good company and found happiness in simple adventures, laughter, and togetherness with those he loved.

After high school, Anthoné entered adulthood just as the world was changing, always doing his best to move forward. He was known for his warm, welcoming spirit, whether serving customers as a cashier and server at the local restaurant, lending a helping hand to Big Lots shoppers by carrying out heavy packages with a smile, or supporting family members during difficult times. As life grew more challenging, he returned to California, where he helped his sister Tiannah care for her children and looked out for loved ones in any way he could.

Even as he faced obstacles, especially after developing epilepsy, Anthoné showed remarkable resilience, deepening his wisdom and compassion. His experiences during these years only sharpened his ability to mediate, comfort, and connect those around him. Through it all, Anthoné remained a devoted son, brother, uncle, and friend, giving selflessly and offering kindness that touched everyone he met.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Mattie King & Saleem Elamin Sr., and his paternal grandparents, James McNeese & Essie McNeese. As well as his uncles Frank McNeese & Tekulve “Kupp” McNeese. He is survived by his father, Anthony Bujunutz McNeese Sr.; his mother, Kameelah Inas Elamin-Bowman; and his step-mother, Sonya Hunter; and his stepfather, Brent Bowman. He is also survived by his siblings: from his father’s side, Tiannah McNeese, Se’Bryna Sowell, and Breelan McNeese; from his mother’s side, Jayah Harris and Joshua Elamin; and through his step-mother’s family, Shiya Clipps, Maalika Clipps, Andranicka Fomby, Ashlei Griffin, Kedric Griffin, Marquese Griffin, and Kourtnei Griffin. Additionally, he is survived by many loving uncles, aunties, and cousins, all of whom cherished his presence and hold his memory close to their hearts.

Memorial services for Anthoné are being planned to be held in both New Jersey and in California. Details will be made available here when they are finalized.

There were goals he had yet to achieve, moments yet to be lived, and a love still to be shared, but his life was cut short before those dreams could be realized. He will be deeply missed.

The family appreciates your support, thoughts, and prayers during this difficult time.