What Happened to Roy Jones Jr.'s Son? The Boxing Legend Shared Devastating News
"I’m so thankful that God allowed me to come home Friday night to spend the last night of his life with me and the family."
Published June 25 2024, 11:40 a.m. ET
Content warning: This article mentions suicide.
Hall of Fame boxer Roy Jones Jr. shared the devastating news that his son DeAndre died by suicide on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
He was 32.
Roy, who has won multiple championships in four different weight divisions, announced the news on June 24.
Here's what we know.
Roy Jones Jr. (L) and Mike Tyson (R) came out of retirement in 2020 for a fight.
What happened to Roy Jones Jr.'s son?
In a social media post, Roy wrote:
"Unfortunately, my son DeAndre took his life on Saturday. I’m so thankful that God allowed me to come home Friday night to spend the last night of his life with me and the family."
He continued: "I know a lot of people are going through tough times right now, but nothing is worth taking your own life. God gives it and God should be the one to take it away."
"Please respect our privacy while my family and I process this loss. Thank you for the love and support," he added.
Roy shared DeAndre with his wife, Natlyn. The couple has two other sons named Roy III and DeShaun.
Well-wishers flooded the comments section under Ray's post, including several fellow professional boxers.
"My deepest condolences brother," wrote Amir Khan. "I am so sorry. Praying for your family. 🙏🏼"
"I don’t think any of us can say anything that could possibly bring you some comfort," Andre Dirrell wrote. "I just hope you can gain some understanding in the days, weeks and months ahead! Talk to God, Roy! #RIP"
Wrote Antonio Tarver: "My sincere condolences to Mrs. & Mr. Roy Jones Jr. 💐 and their family, let’s cover this great man with love in his time of need… 🙏🏾🕊️ #TenCount 🛎️🔨 R.I.P."
"I'm so sorry bro," added Badou Jack "The Ripper."
Fernando Vargas wrote, "THE VARGAS FAMILIES DEEPEST CONDOLENCES CHAMP…. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾"
We wish the Jones family healing and peace in this difficult time.
If you or someone you know are experiencing suicidal thoughts, call, text, or message the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Dial or text 988, call 1-800-273-8255, or chat via their website.