Demarco Kenneth Lyles

Some people merely walk through the world but Demarco "Marco" Kenneth Lyles illuminated it. Born in Washington, D.C. on August 2, 2001, to Stephanie Lyles and Kenneth Smith, Marco possessed a rare, gentle heart that acted as a safe harbor for everyone he met.

At just 24 years old, he had already mastered what matters most in life: making people feel truly seen, important and loved. Marco navigated the world with a beautiful blend of grace and grit. He grew up attending schools across D.C., Prince George's, and Montgomery Counties, collecting lifelong friends at every stop.

Marco was a champion on the football field, traveling the East Coast and bringing home trophies. He was also a daredevil on a dirt bike—a passion ignited by his older brother when Marco was just a fearless three-year-old.

But Marco was much more than that. He was a man of deep sentiment and bright dreams. He had an eye for fashion, an ear for great music, and a soul entirely dedicated to his family. No one will forget the sound of his laughter, or the way he would serenade his mother with Jaheim’s "I Changed for You" and sing along to Kem's“I Can’t Stop Loving You." He gave the world the absolute best of himself, always showing up for those in need with a compassionate spirit and an unforgettable smile.

His sudden loss leaves a pain that words cannot fully capture, but the love he anchored in our hearts is eternal.

Left to cherish his beautiful memory are his loving parents, Stephanie Lyles (Cleo Webb) and Kenneth Smith; his sisters, Brianna, Akiyah, Rileigh, Payton, and Cleona; his brothers, Deonte, and Raheem; and his 1st nephew Deonte grandmother, Elizabeth Smith, and grandfather, John Lyles;, alongside a host of beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He is reunited in peace with his grandfather, Roy Smith and grandmother, Carolyn Bowden.

Marco’s life was a gift. We will spend the rest of our days celebrating the remarkable man he was.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever Fly Marco.