Marquel Reondez Carter was born to Robin Swinney and Marcus Carter on June 14, 2004, in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended KIPP before earning his diploma from McClure High School.

Marquel was well known and deeply loved by his family. He was affectionately known as the “Lil Man” of the house. Smart, observant, energetic, and filled with joy, he brought light to every room he entered. A devoted churchgoer and an all-around good person, Marquel embraced life with enthusiasm.

His favorite hobbies included being a loving little and big brother, an amazing uncle, and a dedicated babysitter. And of course, he was a passionate gamer.

Marquel was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother “Nene,” his big cousin Deontae Thomas, and one of his best friends, Travon Wilford.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his nieces, Daimoni Wilford and Sevyn Carter; his mother, Robin Swinney; his father, Marcus Carter; his siblings, Diamond Coleman, Tamilah Carter, Reondez Martin, and Marcus Carter Jr.; his grandfather, Robert Smallwood; his grandmother, Sandra Thomas; a host of play moms and best friends; and a special aunt, Sheila Swinney.

Marquel’s kindness, laughter, and warm spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.