Jelani E. Litwinka

Jelani E. Litwinka, 23, of Hartford, Connecticut, passed away on March 12, 2026. He was born on August 27, 2002, in Hartford, CT, and was the beloved son of Sophia Lawrence and Michael Litwinka III.

Jelani was a compassionate and protective young man whose strength and integrity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He graduated from East Hartford High School in 2020 and briefly attended Central Connecticut State University, where he majored in accounting. Jelani later found his path working as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service and held various delivery positions over the years. He truly enjoyed being on the road, listening to music, and making deliveries.

A devoted son, brother, boyfriend, and friend, Jelani was known for his dedication to those he loved. His charming smile could light up any room, and his presence brought comfort and joy to so many. He will be remembered for his humor and his effortless ability to make others laugh.

In his free time, Jelani loved spending time with family and friends, watching podcasts and television series, and listening to music. He enjoyed dining out, collecting trendy fashion, and taking walks with his dog, Remi. Jelani also cherished traveling with his girlfriend and had a special love for good food—especially fried chicken, his favorite.

Jelani leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Sophia Lawrence (Amayla); his father, Michael Litwinka III (Keisha); his grandmothers, Lorna Russell and Carolee Litwinka; his brothers, Giomani Deleon and Cameron Litwinka; his sister, Gianna Litwinka; his cousin Jalen Grant, whom he considered one of his closest friends; his best friend, Kyle Espute; and the love of his life, his girlfriend, Charlie Goldston-Walker, along with a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Michael Peter Litwinka II, and his oldest brother, Michael Peter Litwinka IV.

His family will receive friends on Friday, April 3, 4-7 p.m., and on Saturday, April 4, 8-9 a.m., followed by a Homegoing Service at 9 a.m., at The Lodge Community Chapel, 130 Deerfield Rd., Windsor. Burial will follow in Silver Lane Cemetery, East Hartford. Carmon Windsor Funeral Home has care of the arrangements. For online condolences and to view the services live or after, Saturday, April 4th at 9 a.m., please visit, www.carmonfuneralhome.com.

Jelani's passing leaves a permanent ache in the hearts of all who loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.