Kabir Joseph Lawal, affectionately known as “KJ,” passed away at 24, just shy of his 25th birthday. His sudden departure has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born November 3, 1999, KJ embodied kindness and responsibility in every aspect of his life, leaving a legacy of love and compassion.
KJ was loved and expressed love unconditionally. Whether offering a helping hand or simply listening, his sincerity lay evident in the way he was there and will forever be felt in his absence. He possessed everything that he aspired to be—creativity, compassion, thoughtfulness, and a kind of care that made others feel seen and heard.
He graduated from Hofstra University, where he earned a BS in economics along with an MBA. Among his many passions, KJ has always enjoyed playing tennis. He often practiced whenever he could—we will always cherish the memory of attending the US Open together. He loved every aspect of music: listening, singing, and playing. From a young age, KJ embraced singing as a means of expression.
In his free time, he also learned to play the guitar, violin, and piano. His creativity ran deep—and was signified in his advocacy for not only himself but others. Along with being an avid reader, his writings offered another avenue of expression.
He is survived by his loving sibling, Carrie Lawal, and his devoted parents, Yvette and Kabir Lawal, who will forever cherish his memory. KJ’s family and friends take solace in the incredible person he was and are grateful for the time they shared with him.
His impact on those around him will last forever. KJ will always be remembered for everything that he was—a beautiful spirit and best friend who shared his love so freely.
A Celebration of KJ’s Life will take place November 23, 2024 from 2pm-4pm at:
Columbus Museum of Art
480 E Broad St, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Directions available via the link below:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/NqQsjJsSDXPgGV226
Rev. Dr. Ruth McCants Locke of St. John's AME Church will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to https://www.carolerobertsoncenter.org/donate/
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com.
Please leave a video condolence by entering your name and click the "Record" button below. You can always preview your video prior to submitting it. Please note that you may receive a prompt to grant DefioreFuneral access to your camera. This is only temporary and will be solely for the duration of recording your condolence message.
Our sincere condolences to the Lawal and Readus families at this time of profound loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
I had the pleasure of taking care of KJ in the infant room at The Early Education Station. What an amazing young man KJ grew to be. So talented. I am incredibly sorry for your family, friends and all whom KJ impacted in his short life. Many, many thoughts, prayers and much love to you all.
My heart goes out the family during this difficult time. I will keep the family in my prays.
Our deepest condolences in the loss of a son, brother & wonderful young man. Sending you all of our love during this time.
My sincere condolences to your family. You are all in my prayers.💐
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family with KJ's passing. May God wrap His arms around each of you during this time of grief. I am sending continued love and prayers.
May the God of all peace be with your family during this time of mourning. Love and prayers for you entire family.
Prayer and blessings for you, Family, as you go through this trying period. I cannot begin to know how you feel at this time but if there is anything you need me to do, please contact me. God bless you all continually.
Still seems like a dream
My heart is heavy to have read this. I will always remember KJ as such respectful young man with poise and presence. My prayers to your family in your grief.
Our deepest condolences to the family, and we will keep the family in our prays.
My sincerest condolences and prayers are extended. My heart goes out to the family during these difficult times.
My deepest prayers are with you and your family. KJ will be remembered fondly.
May the love of Almighty Allah bring you and your comfort at this difficult time. Almighty Allah's grace is all-powerful and can give you and your family the strength to get through anything. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." May the love of your angel softly enfold you and your family. May KJ soul rest in perfect peace. Almighty Allah is in control.
I'm praying for the family in such a time as this in the name of Jesus. My deepest condolences. If I can be of service please call me.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences to the Lawal family. I am sending my prayers and blessings to you during this difficult time. May God's mercy and blessings be upon you and everyone affected. I pray for God's blessings upon each of you.
My deepest condolences. What a talented and perfect gentle man. May God grant the entire family His peace and the strength needed at this time. Thoughts and prayers are with KJ’s parents and sibling.
I'm deeply saddended to hear the loss of your beloved son KJ. My heartfelft condolences to you and your family during this profound difficult time. As I read his obituary, his life beautifully expressed - love, kindness and creativity that touching the hearts of all that knew him. Prayers that God's comfort and peace surround you and your family, providing enouragement and grace to navagate through this time.
My heartfelt sympathies are with your family, and I will keep you all in my prayers. May KJ's memory be a blessing and the Lord's perpetual light shine upon him.
I am at a shock receiving the msg today. Our deepest sympathy. KJ, Carrie and our children Justin and Pervonne sang in the choir for many yrs. He was so passionate about his contributions to the youth. We pray for you all and God grant you peace.
I am hearbroken to hear of the loss of your son KJ - the pain you must feel is unimaginable and my thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. As I read through his obituary, it was clear he was a young man with so much promise that was fortunate to be a part of a loving family. My hope is that your family navigates this devastating loss by getting closer and stronger as a unit - focusing on the great memories you have of KJ to get through each day.
My sincere condolences to the family.
Inalilahi wahina lilahirajuhun. We came from you and to you we shall return. Our hearts felt sympathy goes to the family. May his Soul Rest in Peace. For us left behind may we be granted more years before we become like him.inshaAll.Rest jn Peace.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family at this time. Our prayers are with you.
I have been praying for the Lawal family and for all who will sorely miss KJ's presence. The fourth verse of John Fawcett's "Blessed Be the Tie That Binds" is "When we are called to part it gives us in-ward pain, But we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet a-gain."
My brother Femi, I am deeply sorry for your lost, I am extending my deepest condolences to you and the entire family on behalf of myself and the Borishade family, Myself, Millie, Jimmy and Micheal, we will keep you all in our prayer, you all stay strong and may ALLAH / GOD bless each one of you all, and make this the last time we will ever experience something like this. In his name I pray. Amen 🙏🏾.
Kabir, Yvette & Carrie my heart is so heavy and I grieve with you. May God wrap you in his arms and comfort you throughout this journey. Love to you.
Gone much too soon. May his soul RIP and may God give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
It is with heavy hearts that we receive the news of KJ’s passing. May God provide you the comfort needed to heal you. We continue to pray for all of you.
Kabir, Yvette & Carrie my heart is so heavy and I grieve with you. May God wrap you in his arms and comfort you throughout this journey. Love to you.
I’m so sorry for your loss…….sending heartfelt condolences to the family. Be encouraged and peace be with you!!!
Dear Yvette, Kabir and Carrie, Our deepest condolences to you. We are at a loss for words and our heart goes out to you. Your cherished memories with KJ will remain forever. You have made beautiful lasting memories. Please continue making beautiful memories in honor of him. Much love to all of you.
My deepest condolences to the Lawal family. As a member of St. John AME Worthington, I have fond memories of both Kabir and Carrie as they participated in the musical activities at the church, including the ensembles directed by Jim Davidson. May Kabir's memory shine bright and continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.
Dear Yvette, Kabir and Carrie, Sending my deepest sympathy. May your loving memories of KJ bring you peace, comfort, and strength at this difficult time. My thoughts are with you.
We were sad to hear about the passing of KJ, your remarkable son. He will be miss. My grand kids still remember how kind he was to them at Kenneth home. Remember that God is a father too and he knows your pain. Love always Lou and Nette
May the Lord heal your broken hearts and may you cherish the memories. We are part of the Urban Strings family and keep your families lifted up in our prayers.
Dear Yvette, Kabir and Carrie Our deepest condolences to you and your family. You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I pray to God to carry each of you during this time and console your heart. Our hearts are with you! I’m here for you my friend!
So saddened by the sudden loss of KJ. He was such an accomplished musician and I met the Lawal family when I was a member of St. John AME. There are no words to express what I feel at this moment. However, I pray that God will heal our hearts and eventually we will focus on the sweeter memories of his music and all the wonderful things he accomplished in life. Continuing to keep his family and loved ones in my prayers.
Dearest Yvette, Femi and Carrie, and grandma Readus, we are so sorry for this unexpected and painful loss. We still remember the children’s visits and KJ sleeping on the couch and being picky about his food. We remember the July birthday picnics for all the kids born in July. May the Lord sustain and comfort all of you, and wrap his loving arms around you. We are so grateful for our hope of the resurrection. May KJ’s soul rest in perfect peace. He will be missed.
Kabir, Yvette, and Carrie, we are deeply saddened by the loss of KJ and want to express our heartfelt condolences. We will always remember his warm smile, generosity, and kind demeanor. Your family remains in our hearts and prayers. Love you!