Wrote the play "Ugly" about the devastating effects of domestic abuse after his sister Alice was shot by her husband in 2002. He staged the play while a student at Julliard, and received the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts' Martin E. Segal Award for his efforts.
Moved from Alabama to New York to attend the prestigious acting program at Juilliard.
Had two young children with his wife at the time of his death--a son Breon Ellis and newborn daughter.
Had six siblings.
Born in Harvey, IL. Moved to Bessemer, AL, with his family at age six. Moved to Dolton,
IL, at 14, where he attended Thornridge High School.
Served in the United States Marine Corps but quit shortly after enlisting.