Qweon "Pooh" L. Drayton-Washington Jr.

Obituary For Qweon "Pooh" L. Drayton-Washington Jr.

Qweon L. Drayton-Washington Jr., affectionately known as Pooh, passed away far too soon on July 27, 2025. He was born on May 2, 2001, at St. Joseph Hospital in Warren, Ohio. He was the firstborn child of Qweon Drayton-Washington Sr. and Maria M. Williams.

Pooh had a big heart and a larger-than-life personality. He had a deep love for sports, especially football and basketball. He proudly played for the Southside Phantoms and other teams in the Cleveland area, where he helped bring home a championship win. He graduated with honors from The Academy for Urban Scholars High School, where he was known for his intelligence, drive, and determination.

One of Pooh’s favorite things to do was make music with his father and close friends. Whether freestyling or hyping up a room, his energy was contagious. He had a goofy, loving spirit and made everyone around him feel seen and appreciated.

He leaves behind a loving family: his parents, Qweon Drayton-Washington Sr. and Maria Williams; siblings, Leviticus M. Drayton-Washington, Amanda Reynolds, Angelica Williams, Jamarion Williams, and Isabella James; along with Marie Kaschak and Queen Youte.

He also leaves cherished moments shared with his grandfathers, James L. Washington and Mario M. Williams Sr.; grandmother, Mary L. Chipps; aunt, Tanisha (Tyrone) D. Crafter; and many more relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

As Qweon entered eternity, he was reunited with his grandmother, Apostle Carolyn L. Drayton; great-aunt, DeAnna Washington; and cousin, Na’Kiayha Warfield—who now welcome him with open arms.

Pooh was deeply loved and supported, but he silently struggled with mental illness, particularly schizophrenia. Mental health challenges can be invisible but devastating. Though he fought bravely, his pain has now ended, and he is at peace—free from the torment and the voices. Pooh's beloved family shares this message publicly for others: If you see someone struggling, speak up. Offer kindness. Be present. You never know the difference it might make.

At 11:00 AM there will be a Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church, 1210 Himrod Avenue in Youngstown, and Associate Pastor Cleveland Burton, will officiate.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Qweon “Pooh” L. Drayton-Washington Jr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Just Wait for the Sun by Lisa Marks

When everything's darkness
And you feel so alone,
When the rain doesn't stop
And you can't make it home,
When it feels all is lost
And you just want to run,
It can't rain forever.
Just wait for the sun.

When family is pain,
When friends can't be found,
When you just want to scream
But you can't find the sound,
When it's all your fault,
And you feel like you're done,
Just wait for the sun.
The sunshine will come.

The storm always passes.
It won't last forever.
The rain always stops and gives way to good weather.
The brightest and warmest of days still to come.
Please wait for the sun.
The sunshine will come.

People who need you,
People who still love you
Can warm up your soul like the sunshine above you.
You're never alone,
No matter what's done.
Wait for the sun.
Just wait for the sun.

Dark clouds always pass.
I promise you, hun.
We're all waiting with you.
Just wait for the sun.