Balloon Release in Memory of Fort Wayne’s Keishon Edward

M. Todd Manuel
FWIS Contributing Writer

Keishon Edward was the first death of the year, and his friends and family would agree that it was a devastating way to begin 2023. His mother and father received a call shortly after the New Year's ball drop, letting them know there had been a crash involving their son. Unfortunately, Keishon died on January 1, 2023, in a fiery crash that led to his death. But since his death, Keshawn's legacy has remained one of respect and adoration from his previous high school teachers, co-workers, and friends. Perhaps one of the biggest testimonies is how his family came together to honor his legacy as an all-SAC football player in high school and a college and semi-pro athlete. Learning about Keishon has been as great a pleasure as attending a memorial balloon release for his 24th birthday. "His light was VERY Bright," said his mother, Tishie White, in a public interview.

Speaking with some of his friends, I found that this must have been true. Nearly four months after his death, his friends and family gathered in a small park near Keishon's apartment, where they celebrated his birthday without him for the first time. With more than 50 people at the event, emotions were high as many of his friends and old football coaches came to pay tribute to this remarkable young man. The recurring theme was who Keishon was and how vibrant his spirit and presence were to all of them.

"I've known him since he was six, and he always kept a smile on everyone's face," said Tereasa Mason, a former worker at the Boys & Girls Club and later a mentor and friend to Keishon through his adulthood years. She repeatedly talked about his hugs and how he was a loving spirit, a socialite, and a genuine lover of people. Her daughters played with Edward and shared sporting activities while growing up together.

A memorial table was set up in the colors of Keishon's team: blue and red. There, an urn could be seen along with cake and other memorabilia for those to remember about Keishon. He holds the North Side record for over 1000 rushing yards in a season, with over 300 rushing yards and three touchdowns in a single game.

He went on to play Semi-pro for the Fort Wayne Tigers, where coach Quinton Washington—head coach—also began working and mentoring Edwards. Washington said he was not only a great athlete but also a great person who ensured that everyone was okay. "He was a lightning bolt, with a great spirit, and a leader to everyone around him," said Washington while at the event.

The balloon release was bittersweet, but on a very vibrant, beautiful day, the type of day that his mother believes was created to communicate Keishon's final goodbyes. While friends shared memories, they embraced each other with love and prayer to support each other and to remember what matters in this life—each other. The Edward family is starting a foundation honoring Keishon and what he represented. Proceeds will go to provide scholarships for excellent athletes who are the light of their teams.