I'mere Amaris Means

I'Mere Amaris Means, affectionately known as "Greedy," by his maternal grandmother; left this world on September 19, 2025, at the age of 23. Born on December 16, 2001, in Peoria, IL, I'Mere was a shining light in the lives of those who knew him. As the beloved first child of Nicole Latrese Whitelow and Darnell Means, I'Mere brought joy and laughter to his family. He was educated in the Peoria Public Schools and held various jobs, showcasing his determination and work ethic during his short but impactful life. I'Mere embraced his faith at a young age, accepting Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at Zion Baptist Church, where he was guided by the nurturing presence of the late Pastor Michael L. Hart and the youth pastor, Reverend Samuel Duren. A true sports enthusiast, I'Mere loved playing basketball, spending hours on his PS5, and vibing to his favorite music. He took immense pride in being a protective big brother to his younger siblings, Kayden and Jenesis, always ready to support and uplift them. But the greatest love of I'Mere's life was his precious 4-year-old daughter, A'Meera, affectionately known as "Chunky." Their bond was unbreakable, filled with laughter and adventures-whether they were at the park, enjoying ice cream, or cozying up for a movie night. I'Mere was a devoted father, indulging Chunky's every whim, including helping her choose her first fish, lovingly named Popsicle. I'Mere leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories, including his daughter A'Meera Jenae Means-Stroud (daddy's girl) of Peoria, IL; his mother, Nicole L. Whitelow (Barry Dorsey) of Arlington, TX; his father, Darnell Means of Peoria, IL; his siblings, Kayden J. Clayton and Jenesis E. McKnight, both of Arlington, TX; along with his additional siblings Sa'Nya Washington of Ocala, FL, Imani Means of Houston, TX, and Is'Rael Means of Peoria, IL. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Janice M. Whitelow of Peoria, IL, and Kevin E. (Michelle) Hutcherson of Emeryville, CA, his paternal grandmother, Dorothy Means of Milwaukee, WI, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who adored him. I'Mere is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal great-grandparents and a multitude of family and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.