Jaden M. Lorek
Obituary
Jaden Lorek, 15, of Wilmington, NC, unexpectedly and tragically left us on the morning of May 19, 2026. Born October 8, 2010, Jaden brought light, laughter, and originality into the lives of all who knew him.
Known for his sharp wit and quick sense of humor, Jaden’s intelligence and clever sarcasm made him a memorable presence among anyone in his vicinity, but especially with friends and family. He was both bright and motivating, able to draw others out of their comfort zones through encouragement or a perfectly timed joke. Jaden embraced life with a big heart and a fiercely independent spirit, challenging expectations and forging his own path with courage and nontraditional flair. He had a strong sense of fearlessness and wanted to experience life for all it could be.
Jaden was truly athletic, playing soccer for years starting at the age of five, moving on to basketball and football later. After many years of flag, he played Pop Warner with the Wilmington Eagles and made it to Nationals in Orlando. The following year he was starting QB for Williston Middle school. He played again in eighth grade, and also was a starter on the basketball team that year. He got into skateboarding several years ago, and was immediately welcomed into the community with open arms. He spent the majority of his time these last few years skating, primarily at Greenfield lake. Jaden was deeply passionate about skateboarding, calling it his release and meditation.
He was a young man whose individuality shone through everything he did. Jaden’s rebellious streak was always paired with genuine warmth, endearing him to those lucky enough to share in his laughter and loyalty. Jaden was nothing if not authentic, always true to himself, a leader with a creative mind. He was remarkably brilliant, too smart for his own good sometimes. He could be impatient, always ready to take on the world and seek new adventures.
Jaden had the soul of someone who has been here before, protective of those who needed and always ready to learn. He was often a staple in any room he walked into, with a contagious laugh and infectious smile. He will forever be deeply, profoundly missed by those who knew and loved him. His memory will be carried on in the stories told and the lives he touched in his few but impactful years on this earth.
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We have decided to use Tranquility Aquamation for Jaden, with no viewing or funeral. There will be a small private memorial for family and close friends, with a larger Celebration of Life held at a later date. We will keep everyone posted.
Please, please share any memories, photos or videos you may have of Jaden. No matter how old, how small or seemingly insignificant they may be, even the tiniest moments matter to us right now. We would love to experience him through the eyes of everyone that was lucky enough to know him. Thank you, to each and every person who were a part of Jaden's life.
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May 27, 2026
Jaden being at school and just hanging in ms.sheesly office with you was the best moments ur smile always brightens my day and everyone else’s day also you were an wonderful bright brilliant soul and it’s sad to see you gone so soon I’ve been up thinking about this on late nights hurt go brighten then sky Jaden you and very loved and missed i love you❤️🩹🫶🏽
May 26, 2026
mr mallory's class was one of the best times ever. it was just always us playing & getting our work done.
ms harris class was also one of the best times. we had 3 classes tg and never took any of them serious you'd throw water on me, pull my hair, and say mean things to me but ik you never meant any harm
sometimes we went outside and would play basketball, i remember when we found that random scooter and u were doing tricks and the principal came outside and took the scooter
our lunch days were always fun as well.
your smile always lit up the room & i'm glad your not fighting anymore longlivemybestie rest easy jaden 🥺🤞🏼.
ms harris class was also one of the best times. we had 3 classes tg and never took any of them serious you'd throw water on me, pull my hair, and say mean things to me but ik you never meant any harm
sometimes we went outside and would play basketball, i remember when we found that random scooter and u were doing tricks and the principal came outside and took the scooter
our lunch days were always fun as well.
your smile always lit up the room & i'm glad your not fighting anymore longlivemybestie rest easy jaden 🥺🤞🏼.
May 26, 2026
We were very close but the few times we hung out he was like light in the room, he is such a joy to be around and always making everyone laugh. LLJ 🕊️
May 26, 2026
I have constantly had your family on my mind and have been praying for you since I heard. I have such vivid memories of sweet Jaden in my kindergarten class. A hard working, bubbly, sweet friend to all. His class was one of my favorite years. They all connected so well and made the school year fun. I remember connecting with Jaden at lunch one day, realizing that your family was living in the house my great-grandparents used to live in. I also was able to see Jaden often when I taught Gavin later. I would love to help your family in any way I can. Please know that I am praying for your family.
May 26, 2026
I had the honor of being Jaden’s principal at Snipes Academy. I will always remember him for his quick wit, handsome smile and for being a leader. He was so smart, loved his family, and was wise beyond his years. Brittany you, Gavin and the rest of your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you all love and strength during this difficult time.
May 26, 2026
I was touched by Jaden briefly in my first year working at his high school. He struck me with his mature demeanor and SoHo sweatshirt. My prayers are with you, his family and friends. I'm so very sorry.
May 26, 2026
I still can't believe that you're gone. I am trying to cherish the good memories, starting with this one: The first time I saw and held you (or tried my best). You were so beautiful and so squirmy. (Look at those blurry legs go!)
Your mom is one of my oldest and dearest friends. We met when we were a few years younger than you...which was quite a while ago now. She was also my first close friend to have a kid, so you've held a special place in my heart - and always will.
I know no teenager believes their parent/parent's friends were a lot like them, but we were(!). Especially in the last few years, I saw so much of the rebellious spirit that originally made me and your mom friends - in you. This thought is somehow comforting and painful at the same time.
It has been an honor to be part of your life, watching you grow from that squirmy baby in my arms into the young man you became. I just wish you could have stayed longer... so so so much, I wish that.
You will be loved and missed, always.
Rest in peace, Jaden.
Your mom is one of my oldest and dearest friends. We met when we were a few years younger than you...which was quite a while ago now. She was also my first close friend to have a kid, so you've held a special place in my heart - and always will.
I know no teenager believes their parent/parent's friends were a lot like them, but we were(!). Especially in the last few years, I saw so much of the rebellious spirit that originally made me and your mom friends - in you. This thought is somehow comforting and painful at the same time.
It has been an honor to be part of your life, watching you grow from that squirmy baby in my arms into the young man you became. I just wish you could have stayed longer... so so so much, I wish that.
You will be loved and missed, always.
Rest in peace, Jaden.
May 26, 2026
rest in peace to this amazing kid
May 26, 2026
Sending lots of love to both parents ❤️ and both sides of the family - from myself and Jaden sibling Avi ❤️ He was full of life and very intelligent. You all are in my heart thoughts and prayers.
May 26, 2026
Brittany my heart goes out to you and your family. It was heartbreaking news to hear of Jaden. Ascending love and empathy to all of you.
May 26, 2026
You truly left an impression. An amazing young man. May you forever be at peace. Love and miss you 🕊
May 26, 2026
Rest easy baby boy we miss you down here 🥺🕊️🤞🏽
May 26, 2026
One of the coolest dudes I met, I met him back 2022, It feels weird with you gone and I wish I got to talk to you one more time💙 forever screaming Long Live Jaden, I miss ya man get your rest🕊️
May 26, 2026
jaden was a great friend he never failed to make me laugh. we had three classes in williston and he was my best friend.
May 26, 2026
Jaden was my first ever friend where we treated each other like brothers our families were close and we practically lived at each others houses I still remember the first day his dad told me how to skate yet he showed me my first Ollie and 180. We need to spread awareness and accountability, to how much more we could have been there for him mentally and physically seeing patterns and learning from this tragedy I miss my Wilmington tour guide and overall best friend smartest friend I ever had one more hug and deep talk can go along way. If anyone ever needs anything or wants to know more about what I’m doing community wise to honor him and us as ilm family let me know at 6059517746
May 26, 2026
Forever loved- Ian 💙
May 26, 2026
Met Jaden back in 2022 through some friends and could immediately tell he was just so much of a person. Too much for words to describe. He was such a beam with a smile everywhere he went. He was thoughtful, and at times quietly comforting. Just such an easy person to talk to about life and literally anything. For years after we met we stayed in touch from time to time, he always checked in and seemed to care what i had going on with life which is really rare in this age group. A heavy soul with a heart too big for this world. Still in disbelief he’s really gone. ❤️🕊️
May 26, 2026
Jaden always was so sweet to me when I was in dark times. Day we were at the skate park and I filmed his videos I had the worst anxiety and he knew and made me feel even more comfortable by bringing me out of my shell, that’s the part I always loved about him. Always in our hearts LLJ🕊️🕊️
May 26, 2026
Jaden was a really cool kid and a really great friend. He was always funny, and found a way to make everyone smile, he is missed deeply class and life in general feels weird without him. The following pictures were taken by Jaden on my phone on may 14th, 2026 in 4th block.LLJ💔
May 26, 2026
Jaden was truly the sweetest person I had ever met, he was the kind of person you’d never forget an interaction with. I had multiple classes with him this school year, and just sitting in those classes feels so weird without seeing him smiling at his desk, laughing, talking to everybody, and just being his true self. He brought so much light into every place he went, and just being around him would make your day. He was such an authentic soul and I will forever miss talking to him and seeing him around the halls at new Hanover. He will always have a special place in my heart. Long live Jaden 🖤🕊️
May 26, 2026
I was at Williston with Jaden for his 6th-8th years. He was so incredibly smart and very witty! He loved to tell jokes and captivate his audience. He used sarcasm in the best ways and knew how to make me laugh at the right moments. He loved his mother deeply and wanted to make her happy. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
May 26, 2026
Jaden brung a different type of energy when you were around him. He always so optimistic , happy , and smiling. He helped me get through some of the roughest times of my life. He was my bestfriend but not only that ,he was like my brother. He will forever be missed. Long live jaden.
May 26, 2026
He was so funny in my 4th block and will forever be in our memories.. LLJ🤍🕊️
May 26, 2026
we miss you so much you were so sweet jayden, we all have sm love for you, you were so funny and kind, literally js the nicest kid you have ever met.LLJ🕊️💗
May 26, 2026
Me and Jaden wee friends since kindergarten we created this unbreakable brother bond at one point if you seen Jaden you seen me we did everything together this hurts because only if he knew how many people loved him and he could've talked to us but I'm forever screaming long live Jaden I love get your rest
May 26, 2026
He was one of my first friends in high school, he was always so supportive and helping and over all sweet, his smile would light up a room no matter how bad the vibe was, he would always make my day better just by talking to him, every time i see his little sister she always has the best things to say about him she truly looks up to him as a person. he will forever be missed.LLJ🤍
May 26, 2026
I was lucky enough to have Jaden in my 4th block English class this year. What I loved about Jaden was his dry sense of humor. He almost seemed like an old soul in a room full on 9th graders. My prayers are with his family as they try and make sense of this terrible tragedy. May we all continue to show each other kindness and compassion as we navigate this grief. LLJ
May 26, 2026
Jaden is family to me. Being a part of his life and watching him grow was such a gift. Every interaction with him brought warmth, humor, and kindness, and those memories will stay with me forever. I love you, J!
May 26, 2026
Jaden will be missed. He was an interesting young man…. blunt in his own way but inquisitive. I was blessed with the opportunity to not only train Jaden ( athletically ) but I was also His Mentor. His level of intelligence was beyond the norm. If you were seeking to have an ordinary conversation with him then Jaden was probably the wrong person to converse with. To be blatantly honest, his topic of conversation sometimes went above adult’s comprehension… ( adults as in “Me” 😂 ). I let him roll though because it was very intriguing to hear him out.
We had a tradition. Our tradition was to take a “Silly Selfie” every time we crossed paths with one another in public… then we would immediately send the photo to his Mother, Brittany ( who loves him Dearly ). She would reply with a laughing emoji ( while probably thinking to herself “This is ridiculous” ). I could say so much more about this amazing young man but that would take a while. Jaden, I love you. To his family & friends… I am sending my deepest condolences. God Bless. 💔🙏🏾
Tarence
We had a tradition. Our tradition was to take a “Silly Selfie” every time we crossed paths with one another in public… then we would immediately send the photo to his Mother, Brittany ( who loves him Dearly ). She would reply with a laughing emoji ( while probably thinking to herself “This is ridiculous” ). I could say so much more about this amazing young man but that would take a while. Jaden, I love you. To his family & friends… I am sending my deepest condolences. God Bless. 💔🙏🏾
Tarence
May 26, 2026
I’ve been trying to find the right words for this and honestly I still don’t think there are any that truly explain how heartbreaking this feels. I met him when he was in 5th grade and from that point on he became such a huge part of my childhood and so many of the memories I carry with me today. We spent countless days together at the trampoline park laughing until we couldn’t breathe, joking around and just enjoying life in the way only kids can. Back then, we never thought about how valuable those moments would become someday. We were just living in them.
As the years passed, those memories stayed with me because of the kind of person he was. He had a way of bringing energy and happiness wherever he went. Being around him always made life feel lighter and easier. So many moments from growing up that I look back on with a smile have him in them. It’s hard to accept that someone who was such a big part of so many people’s lives and memories is no longer here.
Some of the memories I’ll cherish forever are the simple nights we would just hang out at the house and chill for hours. We didn’t always have to be doing something exciting to have a good time. Sometimes we would just sit around talking, laughing at random things, watching TV, or doing absolutely nothing, but somehow those ended up being some of the best memories. Those nights felt endless at the time, like we would always have more of them, and now they’re the moments I find myself thinking about the most.
What hurts the most is knowing there won’t be more memories made. You never realize while you’re living through ordinary days with someone that one day those “ordinary” moments will become priceless memories you wish you could relive one more time. I would give anything to go back to those days when life was simple and we were all just kids spending every day together without a care in the world.
To his family, thank you for raising someone who brought so much joy to the people around him. He truly left an impact on more people than I think he probably ever realized. I hope it brings even the smallest amount of comfort knowing how loved he was by his friends and how many people will carry memories of him for the rest of their lives.
I’ll always remember the laughter, the trampoline park days, the inside jokes, and the feeling of growing up alongside someone who made life brighter just by being there. Those memories will stay with me forever. My heart goes out to his family and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.He will never be forgotten. Rest easy my sweet boy❤️
As the years passed, those memories stayed with me because of the kind of person he was. He had a way of bringing energy and happiness wherever he went. Being around him always made life feel lighter and easier. So many moments from growing up that I look back on with a smile have him in them. It’s hard to accept that someone who was such a big part of so many people’s lives and memories is no longer here.
Some of the memories I’ll cherish forever are the simple nights we would just hang out at the house and chill for hours. We didn’t always have to be doing something exciting to have a good time. Sometimes we would just sit around talking, laughing at random things, watching TV, or doing absolutely nothing, but somehow those ended up being some of the best memories. Those nights felt endless at the time, like we would always have more of them, and now they’re the moments I find myself thinking about the most.
What hurts the most is knowing there won’t be more memories made. You never realize while you’re living through ordinary days with someone that one day those “ordinary” moments will become priceless memories you wish you could relive one more time. I would give anything to go back to those days when life was simple and we were all just kids spending every day together without a care in the world.
To his family, thank you for raising someone who brought so much joy to the people around him. He truly left an impact on more people than I think he probably ever realized. I hope it brings even the smallest amount of comfort knowing how loved he was by his friends and how many people will carry memories of him for the rest of their lives.
I’ll always remember the laughter, the trampoline park days, the inside jokes, and the feeling of growing up alongside someone who made life brighter just by being there. Those memories will stay with me forever. My heart goes out to his family and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.He will never be forgotten. Rest easy my sweet boy❤️
May 26, 2026
I grew up with Jaden’s mom and got to see him grow up through her posts online. When I saw his name on my roster for this year, I was so excited to text her to say he was with me this semester! He was truly a great kid with a very kind soul. His brain was truly creative, he took his time to think deeply about what he’d create in my class (art). I’m going to miss seeing his smile at that table.
May 26, 2026
Jaden was such a unique, genuine person and I’m so grateful I got to spend time with him. I will always treasure the memories of all the late night skate seshes we had and all of our shared memories and goofy conversations. Jaden forever 🫀
May 26, 2026
I met Jaden back in 2021 through one of his really close friends at the time. When I first met him he brought a smile to my face and became one of my good friends making me laugh all the time and everything. There was one night where me and him went skating and I will always remember that night , miss you buddy ❤️
May 26, 2026
I’ll never forget my first day at Williston I was so scared to meet new people and even try to begin to talk to others on my first day sitting in social studies Mrs.Harris class 5th row Jaden was sat in front of me and he looked back at me and said “what’s up with you new girl” from that day in Jaden was one of the most important people in my life I’ll forever cherish every moment I had with him until we meet again get your rest sweet boy I love u Jaden 🫶🏼
May 26, 2026
I got to meet Jaden at greenfield when I moved to Wilmington around 4 years ago, He was one of the first homies I made down here. He was young but way ahead of his time mentally I would say, but he was so passionate and genuine for skating I just clicked to that, we hung out a lot at greenfield. One of the first thing I would hear from the parking lot is “play me in a game of skate” and it was one of my favorite things to hear when I got there, I will
Miss our talks and our seshes he was an amazing person
Miss our talks and our seshes he was an amazing person
May 26, 2026
I had the pleasure of serving as Jaden’s music teacher at Snipes Academy when he was in elementary school. He was always a student who stood out for his charisma, quick-wittedness, bold and playful personality, politeness, chivalry, and natural ability. He was a true force to be reckoned with, an absolute treasure to the Snipes Academy Arts Family.
Even at the tender green age of 7-8 years old, Jaden was one of the most articulate, wise, and courageous students I had encountered. In class, it felt like he knew the answer the EVERYTHING and was also so good at everything he set his mind to do, at nearly the first try! This was especially noted when he joined our STAR-chestra, the youngest in the group of violinists, but caught on to the skill as though he played violin before in a past life, and just didn’t want to tell me (haha)! He embodied the energy and drive that any teacher would want to have in a student. My mother, who used to come support our events would affectionately call him “little Barack Obama”, because leadership was evident in his character.
To Brittany, Gavin, Nova, and surviving family members, thank you for sharing Jaden with us. His absence is truly felt, and will remain a hole in our hearts that could only be filled by him. The loss of his beautiful soul is incredibly devastating to us all, and I believe I can speak for all of your family, friends, and community when I say we are with you and covering your family in prayer. Jaden is a student who will forever remain etched in my heart and memory. He made me a better teacher, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have known such a dynamic young man. He is gone too soon, but may the joy and love he brought to so many surround you and comfort you during this difficult time.
We love you, Jaden, your family, and you will be greatly missed. ❤️
Love, Ms. Faison
Even at the tender green age of 7-8 years old, Jaden was one of the most articulate, wise, and courageous students I had encountered. In class, it felt like he knew the answer the EVERYTHING and was also so good at everything he set his mind to do, at nearly the first try! This was especially noted when he joined our STAR-chestra, the youngest in the group of violinists, but caught on to the skill as though he played violin before in a past life, and just didn’t want to tell me (haha)! He embodied the energy and drive that any teacher would want to have in a student. My mother, who used to come support our events would affectionately call him “little Barack Obama”, because leadership was evident in his character.
To Brittany, Gavin, Nova, and surviving family members, thank you for sharing Jaden with us. His absence is truly felt, and will remain a hole in our hearts that could only be filled by him. The loss of his beautiful soul is incredibly devastating to us all, and I believe I can speak for all of your family, friends, and community when I say we are with you and covering your family in prayer. Jaden is a student who will forever remain etched in my heart and memory. He made me a better teacher, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have known such a dynamic young man. He is gone too soon, but may the joy and love he brought to so many surround you and comfort you during this difficult time.
We love you, Jaden, your family, and you will be greatly missed. ❤️
Love, Ms. Faison
May 26, 2026
I enjoyed every second of having civics class with Jaden. we were close enough to share a few things about his personal life. Watching his skateboard clips gave me the idea to want to start skateboarding. Not only that but he inspired me with his sense of style, i always thought what he wore was cool and always wanted clothes like that. i miss him so much every day. LLJ 🖤🕊️
May 26, 2026
Such an incredibly unique and memorable soul. I will forever miss the time we spent together skating and hanging out over the years. Jaiden had such a genuine love for everyone he encountered. May god carry him with love and peace he brought to this world❤️
May 26, 2026
I am so extremely grateful to have spent time with Jaden the past year. He really is such an authentic person. He would always express his gratitude towards me and my friends for welcoming him, he is always exited to seek a new adventure. He is so, so smart. He is what a good friend should mean, and a genuine human. Jaden forever❤️
May 26, 2026
I was lucky enough to be across the hall from Jaden his first year at Williston. He would always pop into my classroom and say hello or come get a treat if he had a good day. Moving forward, Jaden continued to be a light in my life. Always respectful, the best hug, and his firey personality showing in his academics and athletics. Jaden had a heart of gold, it was seen in his bright smile. It was always “yes maam” and “no maam.” It was always an update on football. Checking in on his brother. Or just a simple “hey, have a good day.” His heart was huge. He will be missed dearly💕 LLJ 🕊️
May 26, 2026
It was a pleasure knowing Jaden, he always had a smile when he was around me and the group of kids that voyage got to work with at New Hanover high school, Jaden was one of their students that became more than just a client. He would show up to feed the homeless even on the days he didn’t make it to school…. The kid truly had a great heart and was admirable for his age. I will forever use this as a motivation to do the next right thing as if he was there watching every step of the way. Love you buddy.
May 26, 2026
😮💨 J L ❤️ 🫂
May 26, 2026
Love & Miss you kid
May 26, 2026
I had the privilege of working with Jaden as his Cis mentor from 6th to 8th grade and also his football coach.Jaden was a very talented kid he had it all the charisma, athletic ability an a very intelligent kid who was loved by many?Were all going to miss him he's former Coaches and Teammates were praying for you and your family. With love Sincerely Coach Ty
May 26, 2026
My precious little cousin. I miss you and love you baby boy. 🕊️
May 26, 2026
It was always a pleasure interacting with Jayden at Williston.Middle School. Jayden was very smart and very passionate about sports. Jayden will be missed. Love Mrs. James
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