Elijah Jovan Leathers-Leaphart, left us far too soon on November 9, 2024. Born on November 16, 1999 to Domonique Jackson (Raymond) and Sinatra Leaphart (Shayla). Elijah was loved just as well by his bonus parents, Rodney "Tree" Donald and Ebony Woods.

Elijah grew up in Canton, Ohio, where he attended Canton City Schools and graduated from McKinley Senior High School in 2018. A gifted athlete, he proudly excelled as a varsity football player for the McKinley Bulldogs.

In the fall of 2020, Elijah embarked on a new chapter in Atlanta, Georgia, where he lived with his beloved aunt, Donette. There, he began a fulfilling apprenticeship in plumbing and soon found success in the restaurant industry. By 2022, Elijah was promoted to management at Chipotle, overseeing one of its newly built locations. That same year, he enrolled at Georgia State University, majoring in accounting while balancing his responsibilities as a devoted father to his son, EJ.

Elijah's faith became a cornerstone of his life. He regularly attended Bible studies with his uncle Troy Griffin and brother Rodney Donald Jr., and found spiritual guidance through his mentors, Brother John Marshall and Brother David Giddens. On June 25, 2023, Elijah was baptized and became a devoted member of the Hillcrest Church of Christ in Decatur, GA.

In the summer of 2024, Elijah made the decision to transfer toOhio State University, continuing his academic and spiritual journey alongside his brother, Rodney.

Elijah was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Sinatra Sandy Leaphart, his infant son, Ezekiel James Leathers-Leaphart, and his aunts Traci Griffin and Tammi Griffin.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for his son, Elijah Jovan Leathers-Leaphart, Jr. Ej, (Alexis Lott)

Maternal grandparents: Donald and Jamesetta "Cookie" Leathers.

Paternal grandparents: Eric Harris and Angela O'Neal.

Siblings: Arihanna Donald, Sanaa Elyse Leaphart, Ayden Allen Marshall, Kamaara White, Rodney Donald Jr., and Sinatra "Lil Joe" Leaphart.

Aunts: Donette Leathers, Miracle Leathers, Shawntay "Candy" Pritchett, Dana Harris, Tamika Williams, Brianna Leaphart, and Marrisa Harris

Uncles: Eric Harris, Mark "Diggy" Williams, Darrius Leaphart, Troy Griffin (Brenda) Donald Leathers, Darren Leathers(Chonette), and Donavon Leathers

Godmother: Dana Tavares Favorite cousin: Destinee Cone andBest Friend, Jay Broyles.

A host of extended family and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Elijah was a shining light to all who knew him and his smile would light up a room.

Elijah's warmth, determination, and unwavering love for his family and faith will never be forgotten. He touched many lives and leaves behind a legacy of resilience, love, and hope.

The family thanks everyone for their continued prayers, support, and love during this difficult time.