I, Floyd Frank Ezell, entered this world on July 9, 1969, in Chicago, IL, to my dad Edward Ezell, and mom Anna Tracey. I attended Evanston Township High School and later decided to complete my GED.
I was often told I was one of a kind and that I had never met a stranger. I have always had an interest in people. I was loved and known by many. I tried my best to be a great listener and talk to you as though I've known you forever. I wanted to make you feel seen and heard. I didn't forget a face or a good deed someone has done for me or others.
I had many talents and knew many things; it just came naturally. A lot of people loved my cooking. I followed my passion for cooking and obtained my Culinary School Certification. I was often called on to stir up a dish or throw something on the grill. Many thought I cooked like an old school grandma because I never used recipes, only magically throwing masterpieces together, that would make you want to slap me and everyone else in the room.
Family is big for me. You couldn't be around me too long and not realize the love that I have for my family. I would cross hell and high water to get to anyone in need or to support. I always made sure that everyone was taken care of. If I had it to give, I would give it. If I didn't, I would find the people or resources to assist you. I have always had a generous spirit.
I enjoyed traveling. My most memorable trip was to Jamaica. I was making plans to take my family back to Jamaica this year. I didn't plan for life to end so soon. I still had so much life to live and many dreams to fulfill. In the slideshow, you'll see me jumping off a boat, which was a fun moment. I was living my best life.
I fought just like I said I would. I didn't give up. I wanted to see my kids and grandkids grow up and attend their weddings and graduations.
I tried to think outside of the box often. I was a creative. I loved music and wanted to create another big concert. I guess we can liken this to my last thrown concert, but just know my music will never end.
I didn't hold grudges. I'd purposely let offenses roll off my back. I would treat you like the offense never happened. I would make sure to make amends for any perceived wrongs.
Yes, I was protective of my family and friends. I always stood in the gap for loved ones; you'd always have to see me if you harmed any of my loved ones in any form.
I was a man of my word. I was often told I had an elephant's memory. I got that from my mom. I remembered everything, big or small. I enjoyed reminiscing and sharing my life's experiences.
I loved sports, I had a special affection for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and in recent years I switched back to being a huge Chicago Bears fan. Some of my favorite pastimes included playing pickup basketball games with my family. I also enjoyed playing and watching the game of Poker.
In my younger years, I was great at break dancing and pop-locking. I spent hours on a piece of cardboard perfecting my craft. I had the honor of meeting some cold break dancers and pop lockers in my day.
I loved the Lord and tried each day to live a life that was pleasing to Him.
On Jan 6, 2026, I transitioned, leaving behind a legacy of love.
I leave to cherish memories of my life, my mom Anna Tracey, as I was her firstborn and the child that made her a mom. I hope the beautiful memories of our journey carry her through each day.
My common law wife, Melissa. You really held me down through this storm. You were the definition of "til death do us part". You were my ride or die. I love you forever.
My beloved sons Floyd, Colezell, Dialo, and Ricky; My grandkids Markese, JaOnia, Lanyejha, Honesty, Island, Issac, Zaire, Zariah, TeArio, Royce, Nyliana, and Nazir.
Jermaine, Remi (Dondra), Isrel, Jamicha (Antwion), Jashowa, Jahzinga, Solomon, Elliot, and Rosalinda, my siblings, may our bond and memories together be forever cherished.
Kim, Tamar, Kezia, Abigail, and Maurice, you all were cousins that I called and thought of as my siblings as well. Thank you for the memories and laughs.
Cousin Reggie, you got it, bro. I know that you'll do great things in this life.
All of my nieces, nephews, cousins, family, extended family, and friends. Thank you for allowing me to impact your life, and thank you for impacting my life.
My beautiful daughter Alayna, my father Pops Eric Tracey, my cousins Yvette and Ina, and my dad Edward Ezell preceded me in death.
I'd also like to thank everyone who supported me in my last days, with calls, visits, and prayers. Your kind gestures didn't go unnoticed and meant a lot to me.
To my older brother. I remember when we used to watch WWE, and after it went off, you would start practicing all of your newly learned moves on us siblings. I remember all of your favorite moves because you practiced them so much on us. Your favorite one was the figure four. You would hit us with a leg lock, and it was over from there. You were always the fun brother. I'm going to miss you and all the fun I had with you. Love you, big brother!
Love Remi
Giving birth to you was hard and almost traumatic, but I would do it all over again, knowing you were the outcome. Watching you grow brought me so much joy, my first memory being your entrance into this world. The pain your little body caused me, from pushing you out to breastfeeding you, was a lot, but you were so worth it.
You watched me struggle and stood by my side during some of my hardest times, like when we had to walk the streets together because we didn't have anywhere to call home. You were there, holding my hand and keeping me strong. Your presence made me promise to never put us in that position again, and I didn't.
I've always felt a deep connection to you, as if you hurt, I hurt. I remember when you were 16 and had a minor surgery to remove a cyst. I felt like it was me on that table, being cut open. It was as if your pain was transferred to me. I couldn't bear seeing you go through anything, because you were my baby.
Son, it was hard watching you leave this world. I'm blessed that you hung on just a little longer so I could be there with you before you left. Even now, I feel your presence and will forever hold all of our memories close to my heart. I love you, Floyd.
To my son, my firstborn, the first person to show me what unconditional love is, thank you. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for showing me how to be a mother. Thank you for being an amazing big brother to your siblings. Thank you for giving me more children to love. Thank you for being my son.