Happy birthday Carmen and Jacinto! Jacinto, I do and I will remember you and your smile, every time I see any parts of my house you fixed for me. You thought carefully how to make things easier for me to use. You were very organized and put things together beautiful in your projects.

Remembering sweet, handsome Jacinto and sending love to his family

I met Jacinto in early 2019. He was very a reliable, skilled, and sweet person. He fixed my rental that had many issues after my tenant left. He looked carefully and offered me the best solution for each of the problems. He also fixed my current house. Even if I asked silly questions, he explained everything in detail helping me to understand.
I learned that he passed away after 5 months when I texted him for several times (I needed his help again) and had no replies, which was very unusual. I was very shocked and took me 2 years to come here and write something. I truly appreciate all he did for me, and I am very sorry for his family and friends.
I am from another country, 53 years old, single mom of a boy. As I remember how sweet he was, and one time that he told me his birthday was same as his mom's, with his shiny smile on his face, I still have tears in my eyes thinking about his mom in California. I cannot find good words to express this, but I will remember him. I remember him every time when I see the door, flooring of the study, the bathroom drain in my house, things he installed/fixed for me. He was a wonderful person. 

I honestly can’t believe this. We were planning to have you come to Seattle for a visit at the end of 2019, and I’m so broken hearted that it didn’t happen. I know things get in the way, but damn man. I didn’t know this happened until just now.

I miss you a whole lot, and consider you one of the greatest friends I ever made at Evergreen. I hope you’re doing okay up there big guy, they’re lucky to have you and we’re unlucky to have lost you so soon.

Dear Jacinto and his family are in my thoughts.
Sending love and peace to all

Mijo, love you much! He would’ve been 28 years old.

Happy birthday Jacinto! I will be thinking of you and your family today. ❤️

Still thinking of you, still remembering you, still aware of your presence, still loving you, still missing you .

Thinking of beautiful Jacinto and sending love to all.

Happy Birthday, Jacinto. The greeting feels hollow without you being able to receive it and reminds us of the void we feel without you in our world. But, I am ever so grateful for the day of your birth. Without your birth I would not have witnessed how you and Rachel became this hand-in-glove duo, with a happy hound. I would not have experienced how you easily integrated into our little, simple family rhythm. I would not have received your quiet kindness. I would not have felt the pull from your undertow of complex thoughts around justice and fairness. I would not have laughed at your wry humor. I would not have witnessed a beautiful human, creative and confident. I would not have met the protector and soul mate to my only child. On this day of your birth, Cinto, I hope you know you will always have a place in my heart.

Thinking of you and everyone you loved and who loved you. I know your Soul energy surrounds us and is shining brightly upon us. Tonight when I look at the stars twinkling, my heart will know your Soul is sparkling back. Happy Soul Day Jacinto, with love, Stephanie

I have until now not been able to post here, because of a feeling of deep loss and sadness. However, I had the privilege of meeting Jacinto's Denver community this past Sunday evening, when I made the trek to Denver to pick up some belongings. I experienced great joy and deep grief in meeting his Denver community. As I felt their joy in his life, and their great grief in his too soon passing. It was not uncommon for each individual to share a story with tears rolling down their face. I was so blown away by the respect, love and admiration everyone had for Jacinto. As his mom I see one side of him. His Chain community opened up a whole new perspective of him. The comments of his close friends there were consistent. They commented how much they loved him. How fun he was. How funny he was. How brilliant he was. How kind and caring he was. He would engage in random acts of kindness. For example his friend Derek was out of town, and Jacinto shoveled snow out of the driveway for his wife Theann, without telling anyone. He also built a beautiful green house for Derek and Theann. How he was so athletic leading Derek's team to a soccer championship.  The comments were heartfelt. "He was a special person" "He brought people together" "He loved a good debate about social justice." "He loved comedy night, and probably only missed one night." "Everyone felt he truly cared about how they were really doing or feeling." "He could read your feelings really well." And Tommy's comment, "He was a really special person, the world was a better place because of him." And of course the twinkle in his eye when he was about to do something goofy or silly. To the chain community, thank you for accepting him, loving him, as I and Rachel loved him. And thank you Brian for not permanently banning him from Chain for the bouncy ball incident. I loved meeting you all Brian, Chad, Theann, Derek, Cole, Kevin, Lawrence, Joshua, and Jamie. I loved Skylar's beautiful comments about him. Johnny, his soul mate in social causes. Who was willing to set up a charity boxing match with Lawrence to help children in El Salvador. In addition, preparing food and toiletries for the homeless. We should all be so lucky to have a loving community surrounding us. Skywalker thank you for the beer, delish. Steve, I am sorry I didn't have a chance to speak to you about Jacinto's joke you planned to incorporate into your stand up comedy appearance. Luv you all much, because you so openly loved him. Stan maybe next time I am there you can get your outfit together, so you can join us.

A Tribute to All of You
From Amos and Rita

Jacinto’s body was laid to rest this past Saturday. But today, we’re writing to thank and pay tribute to all of you. 

For the food... When preparing or buying food seemed like a Herculean task, your kindness lightened our load.

For the flowers… They brightened our days when life felt so gloomy.

For the financial contributions… Saving money to bury a child is something very few of us would ever do. The financial contributions helped ease our worries.

For the prayers and kind thoughts… You helped us to feel supported, held, and surrounded in love.

So many times we cried tears of appreciation for your kind offerings. We feel humbled by your support; and motivated to more deeply assist others in their times of need. In the despair of losing a child, over and over we found ourselves thanking God and the Orisa for the heart you ALL showed.

You’ve all taught us so much. 

To the members of the Ifa/Orisa community, thank you for reminding us that “it would be alright” because there is a divine plan. And thank you for strengthening our family through prayer -- we felt your intentions.

During our memorial, Iya Niko said that the trauma of losing a child is not something we can just “get over,” speaking from her personal experience. We’ve learned that instead of moving on, this trauma can become a source of wisdom, empathy and appreciation for all who nourish our lives.

We were reminded about the precious bonds that are created by transformative teachers. Ben Moran and all of Jacinto’s Sequoyah teachers - your support touched us deeply. And David Anthony, Amos’ wonderful professor from UC Santa Cruz, who logged on several hours before the memorial just as Rita was wondering if people were going to show up. 

We were also reminded that the deep connections we have made in our childhood, our political and educational communities transcended time and space. Our bonds never faded. With the flip of a switch, we were back together, supporting each other. 

We heard the important message from Amos’ cousin Chuckie (Charles Haley). He reminded us to live life with no regrets, to have the conversations that need to be had and to make the meaningful connections that need to be made.

Our friend Kikanza eloquently described the picture (included in the gallery of photos) that her husband Geoff took of Jacinto nestled against Amos at our wedding. The picture shows the depth and wisdom in his eyes, reminding us that we only lost the physical body, not the soul.

The poet Rumi, wrote:

I said: What about my heart?
God said: Tell me what you hold inside it.
I said: Pain and sorrow.
God said: Stay with it. The wound is the place where the Light enters you.

The Light has already come and it came through all of you. 

When this pandemic is over, we will see you all again and give you the embrace that you all deserve. We love you and deeply cherish our relationships with you. 

-- In gratitude, Amos and Rita

Jacinto, I cherish my memory of you as a young boy--with the everpresent radiance of a child always imagining: 'I wonder!' You were so easy, always able to find your way in a gathering of people. You were like my daughter Melinda who would say to me, 'But Mommy, no one is a stranger!' I have so enjoyed hearing stories of you years growing into such an amazing man, a builder of sacred spaces with a generosity of spirit that touched everyone you encountered. As one architect to another, I say as was said of the great cathedrals, 'from the center of the glorious space you have entered, you can hear the angels sing'.

I first met Jacinto at almost the exact same time as I first met Amos, they were inseparable. He was always a beautiful child. While I can't really remember if this is true, in that we welcomed children at the Strategy Center and never believed it was solely the parents' responsibility and joy, I imagine setting him up in the back room with many desks, giving him his own desk, providing crayons and colored pencils and papers and telling him if he needed anything he could just come to the conference room. He wasn't at all bothering us. I remember Amos asking me some advice about parenting in that by then I was raising two daughters with Lian and had another daughter from my first marriage. I gave him the advice that Dr. Spock, the anti-war pediatrician gave to me when I brought my two year old daughter Lisa to a meeting, "the only advice I can give is to love you child and the rest will take care of itself" Clearly Amos practiced Dr. Spock's approach to child rearing and Jacinto thrived knowing he was always loved.

I have enjoyed hearing about Jacinto from his parents over the years. It made me happy hearing about what he was up to and that he was on a path that seemed true to himself. I remember Jacinto when he was younger as caring and thoughtful. He had qualities that are at times difficult to have as a student in middle school. I also remember that Jacinto had a wonderful presence and was someone that I always enjoyed just being around. i know many others felt the same. My love to his family. Jacinto will not be forgotten.

I made a shrine of balanced rocks to honor Jacinto's memory. It's placed next to the heavenly bamboo that he suggested to have planted in a private resting spot. He often sat here enjoying this sanctuary.
Though it's been some time since Jacinto visited my house there remain important things that he touched. Miraculously the garden he planted still thrives despite my poor skills. This spring I was inspired to be even more mindful with its care. I always think of Jacinto when I water it because he would be so dismayed when I neglected to do so.
There are morning glories that are growing like crazy now. They had threatened to overtake the yard. I've tamed it for now. Can't wait to see the delicate purple flowers that seem to come so easily. I remember the day we planted them.
I may find you in my dreams or catch a glimpse of you in the night sky, but I'll always meet you in our garden.
Much love,
Rose (Leila's Mom)

Jacinto worked for Lance, my general contractor, and Chad, the project manager, on a huge remodel in 2017 of my 115 year old house. We had moved out for those 7 months, but of course I was on the job site regularly for updates and decisions. Jacinto was always so personable, and knowledgeable, and professional, and friendly. After we moved back in, there were some punch list items and he came over numerous times over the next year to help with things. He was so wonderful to work with. I was disappointed to learn he left that company, but excited that he wanted to go it on his own for woodworking and other various jobs. My husband and I own 5 rental properties so I used him for other things. The latest job was for him to re-do the bathroom in my old house, after fixing the clawfoot tub leak. The last time I saw him was on March 15 when we were in the crawl space trying to figure out if there was mold. He made me laugh as we caught up about life, local bands, living in Baker, etc. Our project was postponed due to Covid, but during that time I had a long conversation with him in reference to an email I sent him about tile choices. He was simply so wonderful to work with. I was simply shocked and so incredibly saddened by his death. I still look at various fix-it projects in my house and think of him then remember he is dead. I am so sorry for Rachel and all those who loved him. He was so brilliant at fixing things and so lovely. It just seems so unfair. Be well, Jacinto, Rest In Peace. You will be missed.

Memorial for Jacinto Dyson.

In Loving Memory of:

Jacinto Francisco Dyson

October 6, 1993-May 2, 2020

Please join us in celebrating the life and times of our beloved Jacinto.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 22nd from 3pm-5pm and Saturday, May 23rd from 11:30am to 1:30pm at Cabot & Sons in Pasadena.

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, traditional funeral and burial activities are not possible. Only 10 people are allowed in the mortuary chapel at one time and only for 15 minutes. Therefore, you are invited to a specified 15-minute time. You will be required to stay in your car until your scheduled time. Unfortunately, Cabot & Sons requires people leave immediately following the 15-minute time. 

Please follow this link to sign up to attend on Friday: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090B4EA8A82DA75-jacinto Please follow this link to sign up to attend on Saturday: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090B4EA8A82DA75-jacinto1 Please specify if you have any time restrictions during the 3pm-5pm block, we will try our best to accommodate any requests. Please also be sure to indicate the number of people who are accompanying you, and in the comments, please include the name of this/these person (s).

Once you RSVP on SignUp Genius, you will be sent an email (you will also get a confirmation email from SignUp Genius--THIS IS NOT YOUR TIME) Please look for an email from DrAmyGuevara@gmail.com in the next day or 2 with the specific time for your attendance. Please respect the time-limit, being on time and leaving immediately following. If you are late for your time, it is not possible to guarantee you will be able to attend.

To protect yourself and others, we ask that you wear a mask and gloves. If you do not have them, they will be provided. As much as people will want to hug each other during this time, this is also not allowed. Please limit your condolences to verbal expressions. We are sure you will choose not to attend if you have a fever or are not feeling well.

Flowers may be sent to Cabot & Sons Funeral Home, 27 Chestnut Street, Pasadena, CA 91103, (626)793-7159. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jacinto can be made to Urban Peak who provides services to homeless youth: https://www.urbanpeak.org/denver/donate/donate-to-urban-peak-online/ Also, please consider an organization that Jacinto volunteered for: https://goodgrub.z2systems.com/np/clients/goodgrub/donation.jsp

Burial will be on Saturday, April 23rd at 3pm at Rose Hills Memorial Park: 3888 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601; (562)699-0921. Unfortunately, again due to COVID-19 restrictions, only 10 immediate family members can be present at the gravesite. Therefore, it is required that those who want to come to the cemetery must stay in the cars for the entire graveside service and leave immediately once it concludes. 

We understand that these restrictions are difficult given all who love Jacinto. However, given the current situation, we ask for your utmost respect in following the above restrictions.

Dear family

We miss you all so very much, and are filled with both love and loss. Jacinto was the only other person I ever knew-at least as adult-who had ever gone to sequoyah. I remember him as a youngster, and I remember as his brothers and sister arrived. I remember him at Amos’s dad’s house, a mysterious place full of twists and turns and rooms and sounds. Our hearts are with you.

I met Jacinto in the early 2000s through the Labor/Community Strategy Center community. Rita and Amos were mentors/friends to me and I loved every opportunity I got to spend with their family. Jacinto was the coolest big brother and coolest kid. I remember Mirabai playing with his toys...I think lots of legos?!…when she was a toddler. I love to read that Jacinto continued as a builder. I also remember him playing with his friend as we hiked in local mountains to welcome the new year in 2002. I love seeing all the photos here of how much time he spent in nature with friends. I am heartbroken and send much peace to Jacinto's spirit. I send much love and care to Jacinto’s family and loved ones. My deepest condolences and prayers.

My condolences to the family for your loss. My strongest memories of Jacinto was at the Bus Riders Union Membership meetings.

The love that was displayed between him and Amos was very inspiring and made me look forward to bringing my grandchildren to the meeting to build that political connection and awareness to other cultures in a positives. He was very quite and stayed close to his father. While Jacinto was quite he had a very open heart that made him a pleasure to be around.
Love Peace be with you all

Jacinto was our student in the 5th grade, the Eagles' Nest class. I remember him as a quiet and gentle friend and student, respectful and kind. He loved our camping trips, especially climbing the rocks at Joshua Tree. 
Amos, Rita and Carmen I am sending you my deepest love and sympathy for your loss. Jacinto will be fondly remembered by us at Sequoyah School.

I came to LA back in 1999 after college. My memory of Jacinto was from those early days. He was the sweet little boy playing with his toy cars while his dad, our friend, mentor and comrade, Amos Dyson, discussed the strategic importance of a campaign for bilingual education. We were in someone's home planning and talking. I remember Amos going over to check on Jacinto during the meeting. That's how it was in those days. Parents and grandparents would bring their babies along and we all got to see and benefit from the example of how to be good moms, dads and grandparents while being active in social justice circles. May you be in peace Jacinto and I pray for Jacinto's parents and family that they may be surrounded by the love and support they need right now.

I met Rita and Amos back in their Labor/Community Strategy Center days. At some point we realized that we had a shared love of soccer. I remember Rita and Amos bringing Jacinto out to play pick-up with our "LA Futbolista" community. We are not your typical pick-up soccer crew. We are a motley mix of social justice teachers, activists, former Division 1 college players, and people who were picked last in PE class. The glue that binds us is the notion that "if we want to change the world, we also need to change the way we play." Whenever he came to play with us, Jacinto was undoubtedly the youngest person on the pitch by a country mile. The thing is...he fit right in without batting an eye at these whacky grown-ups of tremendously varying abilities all playing their hearts out at a game he also loved. He accepted our less-than-common norms, agreements, and playing style in stride. I will always remember this about him--he was a joyful young man who wasn't fazed easily. <3 Jacinto Presente! Ahora y Siempre!

I have such vivid memories of Jacinto. From the moment I first met him when he came to Sequoyah, I was taken by his beauty....both outer and as a sweet young soul. Jacinto wasn't one to dive into theatre activities with abandon, but he did test the waters and participate in every activity that was available. My favorite Jacinto theatre moment was directing him in the Treehouse melodrama "Ridin' Ritchie". Jacinto played one of the brothers with the required larger than life humor. He was a hoot!

My memories of Jacinto are fused with memories of his family. One of my favorite things about my years teaching theatre at Sequoyah was the relationships with the kids and the parents and my memories of Amos, Rita, and Carmen are many. I particularly remember Amos as he spoke so eloquently about Cuba when we had a panel about why or why not to use stereotypical images that I found offensive that were being proposed for a "Havana Nights" community auction. Politics and kids were at the heart of our bond----thanks so much for bringing your commitment, your point of view, and Jacinto to Sequoyah. My heart goes out to each of you. Please know that I carry your beautiful son in my heart and send you love.

I first met Jacinto in Evergreen’s Thinking Through Craft program and was drawn toward getting to know him better through our discussions in seminar. As we progressed through undergrad we worked closely together, studying art, architecture, and craft. His warmth, humor, and dedication earned him a spot in my heart. I will miss his genuine curiosity, sensitivity, and the loving way in which he interacted with the world. His wit, skill, and insight stay with me. He was a remarkable person whom I will miss dearly.

I remember the day I met Jacinto. The look he gave me when I asked to see his ID... and he had that damn vertical ID. I asked Brifi to verify it for me and he just laughed.
Cinto could read people better than anyone. He knew just how to get under anyone’s skin, and that was one of my favorite things about him. But he also knew exactly what to say when you were down, no matter who you are.
I can say we had one (almost) fight. It was so stupid but it was so funny.... he broke a chair at the brewery and for so many visits after, he made a comment about me telling Chad
One time I came in super hung over. I could barely hold down a pretzel as it was, and Rachel and Cinto made me laugh so hard that I puked.
I’ll miss the way you could make everyone near you laugh like that. I’ll miss seeing your truck in the brewery parking lot. I’ll miss your snarky comments and your sparkling personality. Truly, only the good die young.

You were a brother in arms and the man I would go to war with. Our time together was way too brief. One of my all-time favorite teammates. Z-sex and the the kickball world will never be the same with out you. I miss your athleticism and ability to always have a smile on your face. Most of all I will miss your firm in brace. Thanks for being on my team, coming to my wedding and being one of the most genuine people I’ve known. You will be missed buddy.

Jacinto was about 7 years old when I met him for the first time. He was such a sweet little kid and my heart breaks to know that he is gone way too soon. It’s difficult to understand why these things happen, but we must trust in the plan and continue the path. May God be with the family during this time of much needed strength and solace. All my love as well as the kids love. Ada, Aiden, Jada and Lorena

My condolences on the loss of your child. I remember when Amos was working with the Bus Riders Union on the Civil Rights lawsuit, Jacinto would tag along with him on various occasions. And while I do not remember much I do feel he loved his dad and took to Rita quite well and he was a joyful presence to be around. Peace to you all.

Jacinto was such a shining light in this world. I always enjoyed talking to him because he would share his fiercely unique perspective, with great heart and kindness. Though unfortunately I hadn’t had the pleasure of seeing him in a couple of years, I’ll never forget some of the adventures I shared with him and his beautiful, caring girlfriend Rachel, when I was living in Denver. I will always miss you, Jacinto! Thanks for being someone who showed me first-hand what it means to be unyieldingly true to yourself.

I am the Aunt of the very sweet and wonderful Rachel, who was Jacinto's partner for so many years. When you've known and loved someone since their birth, as I have Rachel, you tend to be a bit protective about who they are seeing. When she brought Jacinto to visit us in Oakland, I knew immediately that he was a great match for her. He impressed us with his kindness, gentle soul, maturity, and good heart. I am so sorry for this terrible loss and send love and prayers to his family and loved one. I am glad that we got to know him. 

There are no words I can say to express my heartfelt sympathy and condolences to my beautiful family Amos, Rita, Carmen, Aunt Charlotte and the rest of my beautiful family. The loss of a child is a something that is a indescribable journey of survival. I'm praying for you all’s comfort at this very difficult time. Jacinto was a very sweet and kind soul that will be missed beyond measure. Forever in our hearts. God bless... Rest In Love Little Cousin Jacinto. Love, Sylvia & Family

I cannot even describe how sad I am feeling; for my little, sweet cousin Jacinto ascending way too soon, for the heartbreak you are suffering cousin Amos & Rita and Carmen, perfect parents to a perfect son! I send love to all Jacinto's little brothers and sister and pray you all get through this very difficult time with grace and eventually find peace again. I love you all and I am so very sorry for your loss!

Jacinto was such a quiet and sweet boy. A great big brother, a good son, a friend to all and always respectful and thoughtful. So sorry to hear about his passing... My condolences to his family. Sending you much love...

Jacinto was a real friend to Alex and to our family. He valued friendship, fun and exploration. Jacinto and Alex loved having Silly String Battles and tortilla wars. There were many hours spent with Pokeman and Gameboys. Jacinto stood next to Alex when Alex had to bury his beloved pet turtle, Norbert. Jacinto had a quiet passion for things that matter. We lost touch in recent years but we'll never lose our memories. This world has lost a special person. We love you, Jacinto.

I remember Jacinto as my art student and also as sweet older brother to Mirabai when she was in the Bamboo Forest. I also remember what a kind loving family you are. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful son.
my heart is full of love for all of you.

Jacinto and my son Alex were very good friends when they were in Middle School. Hanging out together, going places, sleepovers. Talking about all those secret things that little boys talk about together. Jacinto was an absolutely wonderful, gentle child. Can see his face now and it breaks my heart. All my love go out to Carmen and his dad. 

I remember driving Jacinto, Bronson and Josh up the coast to our camping location with Art’s class.
Jacinto noticed that Josh was reading an Edgar Allen Poe book, he asked Josh if he would read the stories out loud to everyone in the car. Josh read the whole way up. When we arrived Jacinto thanked Josh. What I didn’t know was that Jacinto spoke to Art to ask if Josh could read at the evening campfire so everyone would enjoy the readings, and Josh read every night!
Jacinto was kind, thoughtful and caring to others.
My condolences on the passing of your sweet boy.

Jacinto was my student in the 7th and 8th grades. When I imagine him, I see that spark in his eye and a sly half-smile, which always told me some fun and games were underfoot. He had a terrific sense of humor and a warm, playful demeanor, and I often couldn’t resist joining him in the fun and games. He could also be a serious student, deeply intellectual, full of inquiry and always able to provide a fresh perspective. He was so proud when his mom hosted a day at the courthouse for our entire class during our study of the Bill of Rights. I clearly remember how Jacinto and his friend, Alex, would laugh loudly and roughhouse out on the patio in front of the room during break times. Toward the end of his 7th-grade year, he began to see the girls in a different light. Suddenly, he was the romantic guy. He was sensitive and sentimental with such a tender heart. He brought a lot of love and laughter into our classroom and into this world. I’m holding on to these memories, and I will continue to fondly tell his stories to Sequoyah students, who have always loved to flip through the pages of the old yearbooks. He will be remembered at Sequoyah for years to come. 

I am honored to have known Jacinto. A human who stayed true to himself, a competitor and a nurturer. A friend who was always good for a laugh, a student who was hungry to learn and a young man whose story gives me hope that young people can find happiness pursuing their hearts.