Myron X. Moxley

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we celebrate the life of Myron X. Moxley, a
beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, community leader, and friend. Born
on August 18, 1948, in Rochester, New York, Myron was a man of strength, pride,
purpose, and compassion whose journey left an indelible mark on everyone he
encountered. On July 24, 2025, Myron was peacefully called home, surrounded by
the love of his family.
Myron was preceded in death by his loving parents, Blondell and William Moxley,
and his cherished siblings, Paris, Cookie, and Morzell. He is survived by his
devoted brother Brett "Pinky" Moxley, and his lifelong brother/cousin and
confidant, Preston Thomas.
A proud graduate of West High School, Myron was a multi-talented student whose
passions extended beyond the classroom. He was a gifted drummer, an
outstanding wrestler, and a New York State wrestling champion. He also served
on the student council, where his leadership and boldness shined - most notably
when he helped invite Muhammad Ali to the school, a reflection of his courage,
pride, and powerful presence.
Myron's life was rooted in resilience. During the late 1960's he was introduced to
the Nation of Islam under the teachings of Elijah Mohammed. He worked at
Hillside, serveral New York State agencies, and even studied abroad as an
exchange student in London, expanding his worldview. But his true mission was
giving back - and he did so by launching youth empowerment initiatives, such
as Teen Control, and participating in community-focused groups, including his local
drill team. Whether mentoring teens, leading programs, or simply lending a hand,
Myron never stopped investing in the future of his people.
In 1967, he met the love of his life, Karis Y. Smith, and married her on February
15, 1969. Together, they built a life anchored in love and legacy. They raised four
incredible children: Tyrilk (Mary), Chaka (Donyee), Shaheen & Brian (Hyde), and
Moses (Chanel), along with a beloved bonus son, Aaron Sparrow.
Myron was immensely proud of his grandchildren, who carry his fire and legacy
forward: Jasmine (preceded), Vanessa, Imani, Telisha (Robert), Charea,
Timia, Somia, Morgan, Asuna and Briar along with a vast circle of cousins, nieces,
nephews, and cherished friends who were blessed to know him.
Myron was known for many things
-
his quick wit, his fierce loyalty, his sense of
justice, and his unmatched ability to speak truth with love. His favorite quote, "All I
have to do is stay black and die", captured his unshakable sense of identity, pride,
and realism. It was more than a saying - it was a declaration of resilience, of
cultural pride, and of his deep understanding of the world he navigated with
boldness and grace.
Myron X. Moxley lived a life full of meaning. He was a protector, a provider, a
trailblazer, and a quiet revolutionary in his own right. His legacy lives on in every
life he touched, every child he mentored, every beat of the drum he once played.
His spirit reminds us that purpose and pride go hand in hand - and that even in
passing, his light continues to shine.