Jamie Foxx's sister dies at 36: 'My heart is shattered into a million pieces'
Jamie Foxx’s younger sister, DeOndra Dixon, has died at age 36. The Oscar-winning actor shared the sad news on social media, writing the “pain is unbelievable.”
“My heart is shattered into a million pieces... my beautiful loving sister Deondra has transitioned,” Foxx said on Monday. “I say transitioned because she will always be alive... anyone who knew my sis... knew that she was a bright light…”
Foxx posted a series of photos of Dixon, who was born with Down syndrome. She was named an Ambassador for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation in 2011, revealing on the foundation’s website she wanted to be a professional dancer. Those moves came in handy when she starred in her brother’s music video for “Blame It,” a memory the actor recalled in his heartbreaking tribute.
“I can’t tell you how many times we have had parties at the house where she has got on the dance floor and stolen the show... even gave her boyfriend [Chris Brown] a run for his money,” Foxx shared. “Well I know she is in heaven now dancing with her wings on...tho my pain is unbelievable I smile when I think of all of the great memories that she left me... my family... and her friends… from dancing in the blame it video… to Dancing on the Grammys… And becoming The ambassador to [Global Down Syndrome Foundation]... from sliding down my stairs with a grin as wide as the rio grand... to serenading us with all of her music…”
People reports Dixon passed away on Oct. 19.
“Deondra you have left A hole in my heart... but I will fill it with all of the memories that you gave me,” Foxx continued. “I love you with every ounce of me... our family is shattered but we will put the pieces back together with your love.. and y’all please keep my family in your prayers…”
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In a 2018 interview with Dateline, Foxx said he “learned how to live” because of his sister.
“Sometimes we get caught up in our world on the extras of everything — ‘Ah, the Mercedes is not the right color!’” he explained. “And then you see this girl over here, ‘I just want to live. I want to dance. I want to love.’ So she brings you back down to what life is.”
Foxx often spoke about his special bond with his younger sister, boasting about her accomplishments like how she participated in the Special Olympics for more than 9 years.
“She’s a superstar now,” Foxx told People in 2011.
“One thing people may not understand is that the love a person with special needs gives you is unfiltered,” he added. “There is nothing in the way of them loving you and there is nothing in the way of them being upset with you either. You really get the true individual.”
Dixon, who lived with Foxx in Los Angeles, told the magazine, “I’m happy to have a big brother to count on, who I love every day.”
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