It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Illyaas Shariff Brewer Sr., known affectionately to his friends and family as Illyaas, who left this world far too soon on February 23, 2025, at the age of 43. Born on October 22, 1981, in Brooklyn, NY, Illyaas was a beacon of light to all who knew him, and his sudden accidental death in Bradenton, FL, leaves a void that can never be filled.
Illyaas was blessed with a beautiful family, being a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Jessyca Ramos, and a proud father to his four children, Illyaas Shariff Brewer Jr, Jeri-Jenee Brewer, Shariff Brewer, and Gloria Brewer. His life was a testament to love in its purest form, and he will be forever cherished in their hearts. Though he now joins his beloved mother, Jeri Evans, his father, Houston Brewer, and his grandmother, Gloria Gomes, in eternal rest, his legacy will endure through the lives of those he touched.
Illyaas's educational journey saw him earn his GED, a monumental step that led him to a fulfilling career as a Group Leader at Pierce Manufacturing. His commitment and passion can still be felt in the many projects and teams he led; his influence stretching beyond just his work but into the very fabric of the community he loved and served.
An embodiment of joy, Illyaas found solace and happiness in his hobbies, which included the thrill of a bowling alley and the freedom of rides on his E-bike. These simple pleasures, enjoyed with his dearest friends and family, were the moments he treasured most. The laughter and camaraderie that accompanied each outing will be sorely missed, and fondly remembered by all who shared in them.
A network of love surrounded Illyaas, with his brothers Ramar Hassell and Lassan Johnson, and sisters Nicole Byron, Hope Garcia, and Gia Brewer, his aunt Tracy Evans, and his cousins Sean and Rodney Joyner and his aunt Lisa Evans Engram providing unwavering support throughout his life. His sister Aiyesha Evans, his nephew DeVonte Evans, and his niece and nephews, Jade Ingram, Jace Ingram, Jalani Ingram, along with his great nephew Vonti Evans, all held a special place in his heart, each embodying a unique bond that spoke volumes of Illyaas's ability to connect and nurture those around him.
Illyaas's character can best be described as loving, passionate, and optimistic. No matter the challenges faced, he navigated life with an unwavering belief in the goodness of people and the potential for a brighter tomorrow. His spirit was captured in the words of influential poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou, who once said, "Try to be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." Indeed, Illyaas was just that-a rainbow bringing color to the lives of others during their cloudiest days.
Friends and family will remember Illyaas as a man who lived by his principles, displaying an innate warmth and genuine kindness that made every encounter with him meaningful. He was the heart of any gathering. Although we grieve, we also celebrate the remarkable man Illyaas was. We hold dear the memories, the shared experiences, and the love he imparted onto us all. In our hearts, his spirit continues to inspire, guide, and give us strength.
As we say our goodbyes to Illyaas Shariff Brewer Sr., we take solace in knowing that his legacy is as enduring as the love he so freely gave. We will all miss his passionate enthusiasm for life, his unconditional love, and his boundless optimism. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his memory continues to provide comfort and inspiration to everyone who had the honor of knowing him. A favorable quote by who Illyaas took inspiration from, would want his loved ones to remember, "You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice" (Bob Marley).
A Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 2 pm to 4 pm at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory: 5624 26th Street W Bradenton FL, 34207.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 4 pm at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory: 5624 26th Street W Bradenton, FL 34207.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL, 34207 is in charge of arrangements.
