Lyte for Life: Honoring TJ’s legacy through candles that heal and give back. 

TJ Story

Terrence Joshua whom we affectionately call TJ, death is a tragedy shrouded in suspicion. The media was quick to report a “murder suicide “ those closest to TJ knew something didn’t add up. TJ is a kind, loving, loved, cool dude. TJ lived for his daughter Kacie.

On Thursday, August 9, 2024, TJ was found in his apartment in Woodridge, IL, where he lived with a roommate, who was also a victim.

According to the first officer on the scene whose body-worn camera was reportedly malfunctioning TJ was discovered lying on his back with blood around his head and a gun near his feet. The officer, wearing gloves, moved the weapon, stating that the person attending to TJ was in close proximity to it. The Woodridge Fire Department then repositioned TJ by dragging him down a landing step, at which point they discovered a gunshot wound to the back of his head.

Meanwhile, I was in Dallas, Texas, preparing for what seemed to be the longest flight of my life. Over video chat, a surgeon at Good Samaritan Hospital was transparent in his findings, stating that TJ’s wound was not self-inflicted. He confirmed that TJ had been shot in the back of the head at close range and was already deceased before arrival. The injury was unsurvivable.

On Friday, August 10, 2024, at 8:47 p.m., TJ was pronounced brain dead. His death will not be in vain.

Despite the lack of a thorough investigation and unanswered questions, we choose to trust God rather than fight to prove TJ’s innocence. “They” don’t get to narrate TJ’s story. Even in death, TJ had the power to change lives.

On August 13, 2024, through the Gift of Hope organ and tissue network, TJ gave the gift of life. He also donated his body to the Science Care Program, contributing to medical advancements that will help future generations—a decision he made long before the accusations and turmoil.

My firstborn. May 22, 1989. Three days before my 18th birthday. My son

My LifeChangingChallengingGift

“You thought this was your saying and doing. When all the time, God planted the seed within you to be prepared for this season.

He was always supposed to change lives by being a gift. 🎁 challenging for us but a blessing through him for others❤️”            Dr.Katrice Calvin Noble

Through the selfless act of organ donation, TJ fulfilled his purpose in The Earth to God be the glory!

A man in his 40s received his liver

A woman in her 60s received his kidney

A woman in her 70s received his right lung

A man in his 70s received his left lung

A man in his 60s received his heart

Five lives renewed. Five families given hope.

TJ’s legacy isn’t defined by accusations or the grief surrounding his death. TJ Legacy 5 stands as a testament to a kind soul who gave selflessly in both life and death. His name will forever be linked to life—the one he lived and the many he touched.

TJ’s story didn’t end—it continues to multiply. #TJLegacy5