Carizma Fox

WATERBURY- Carizma "Riza" Zy'ne Annette Fox, 17, of Waterbury, passed away on July 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, style, music, and love. Though her time here was short, her impact was powerful and unforgettable.

Born on April 15, 2008, Carizma was the youngest of her siblings-—the "last of the bunch"-and she embraced that title with pride and sass. She was lovingly spoiled by her family and had a personality that could light up any room. Known for her quick wit and sense of humor, she could crack a joke in an instant—but if she saw you hurting, she'd be the first to try and lift your spirits.

Carizma loved dancing, listening to music, and getting her hair and nails done. Fashionable, confident, and full of life. She was a student at Enlightenment School in Waterbury, Connecticut, where she was known for her vibrant energy and bold presence. She was eagerly looking forward to attending senior prom next year—a moment she had dreamed about and talked about often.

Beyond her years in many ways, Carizma had a nurturing soul. She served as a loving caretaker to her grandmother, Theresa James Fox, showing a level of compassion, maturity, and devotion that touched everyone around her. Whether helping her grandmother with daily needs or simply being a warm presence by her side, Carizma's care came from the deepest place in her heart.

Carizma was preceded in death by her beloved brothers Devonte Echols and Cartavis Fox, her grandmother Anna L. Simon, grandfather Willie Ray Jr., great-grandfather and grandmother Arthur James and Annette James, and Aunt Pamela Saunders.

She leaves behind her loving parents, Ella Saunders and Carlton Lee Fox Jr.; and her cherished siblings: Asia Paulin, Zykia Paulin, Shawtasia Tyson, Mya Arnold, Dominique Blow, Janiece Trent, Dalvin Saunders (Denzel Anderson), Tyleek Damon and Allen Nazzir
She will be forever remembered by her five adorable nieces and seven nephews who brough her so much joy.

Carizma is also survived by her devoted grandparents: Maggie Saunders, Theresa James Fox, and Carlton Lee Fox Sr. (Gayle Byrd Fox).

She is mourned and celebrated by her many loving aunts and uncles:
Aunts - Theresa Saunders, Reatha Hooks, Dariah Fox, Rose Buckle, Felicia Saunders, Darlene Saunders, Vernice Saunders, Lauren Saunders, Sharonda Fowler (Shane), and Chandra Montgomery.
Uncles - Walter Saunders, Edward Saunders, Willie Saunders, and Marcus Fox.
She also leaves behind her beloved great-aunts: Patricia "Ann" Hill (North Carolina),
Valerie
Brown, Rev, Mary Gibson, Yvonne Townsend, and Diana Diggs, and her great-uncle Arthur James Jr and favorite Cousin China Jones and Best Friend Ashley Pineda and Mar and a host of family and friends.

Carizma's family asks that we all carry forward her spirit by smiling, living boldly, loving freely, laughing often, and looking out for one another. Whether you dance, tell a good joke, get your nails or hair done, or sing along to your favorite song, do it in her honor.

Her light continues to shine in every heart she touched.