A Tribute
Freshman Armani English: a friend, a basketball enthusiast, and a true Cavalier.
Apr 28, 2014
As students roamed the halls of Gables on Monday, April 28, 2014, it was evident that there was an absence among the usual sea of Cavaliers. On Sunday, April 27, 2014, news fluttered across social media about the tragic death of freshman Armani English. Students of all grade levels rallied together on Monday, and wore black in order to pay respect to English.
According to CBS Miami and NBC 6, English spent the day with a group of friends at Cutler Bay Lake. One of his friends had asked if English was entering the water, to which the response was no. Later, the friend stated that he saw English struggling and tried to pull him out of the lake, although failed due to the lack of clarity in the water. After calling the police, Armani English was pulled from the Cutler Bay Lake by divers and pronounced dead. English’s father, a member of the Miami police force, was one of the officers called to assist at the scene and was clearly upset to passing bystanders.
Remembering English, many of his friends, family, and teachers have been mourning the loss of an intelligent and athletic 15-year-old. English played on the Boys JV basketball team and upon hearing the news, it was clear that the entire team was distraught. The family of freshman Armani English visited the school on Monday and spent a few minutes with English’s teammates as they honored him with a moment of silence.
One of his teachers, Ms. D’Alemberte, regarded English as “a joy to have in class, respectful, and sweet.”
Posts on social media sites like Twitter and Instagram were filled with grief and respect as they sent their condolences to English’s family in their time of need.
Even those who did not know him were shocked by the tragedy, much like senior Jose Melendez who tweeted, “I didn’t know you, but you’re a Cavalier. We all feel hurt knowing someone from our family has passed away. God bless your family #RIPArmani.”
It is clear that our entire Cavalier family and Gables community was affected by the loss of freshman Armani English. English will constantly be remembered as a Cavalier and friend. Heartfelt condolences are issued to those who knew and loved English as he is remembered throughout Gables history.
Sonia • Apr 29, 2016 at 10:23 pm
I remember my daily hugs and kiss before lunch… I’ll never forget you were my first friend in CMS …And instantly became a brother to me… I hope you know that I remember you all the time ..when I play ball or walk or in school.. I miss you crazy ???
Sarah Lyn • Aug 27, 2014 at 2:09 pm
Armani was a close brother of mine.Considered blood to my family.He was such a blessing and left his marks of positivty on us all.We love you Armani.Mac and Travis staying strong for you.#RIPMani
Brenda Evans-Jackson • May 13, 2014 at 5:48 pm
I am Armani’s paternal grandmother. An extended part of me has left this LIFE as we know it but will forever live within my heart. I want to personally thank all of the school administrators, students and especially the sports teams for their display of love, respect and remembrance of my only grandson, Armani. Thank you for walking this journey of mourning with my family.
Life is such a precious opportunity and we must treasure each day. The DASH (beginning date of birth – ending date of passing) includes our family, friends, activities and actions in society. It is important that our youth remember to make a positive impact on those they interact with and all of their opportunities. Take advantage of and make the best of all that LIFE, school and society has to offer. Make sound and wise decisions: if it seems questionable or wrong, don’t do say it. The decision you make may be the one that you can never reverse.
Self respect has to be given and enjoyed before you can respect anyone else. It is human to err but respectful to acknowledge your errors and apologize as you make amends. Quality life begins with quality outputs in order to receive the inputs you need to excel at all that you do. Just think, there are some youth who would love to have your opportunities. From my observance, you are all truly champions of our society who will make major impacts as adults. Grow, learn, share, care and be the best that YOU can be. I appreciate the love and respect you have shown our family. We must move on with our life journeys and make our DASH one of positive influence and quality output.
Kind Regards Always,
Brenda Evans-Jackson
(Armani L. English’s grandmother)