Ja'ir "JA" L Hornbeak

Ja’ir Laron Hornbeak, affectionately known as “Ja”, was born on June 29, 2009 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Janay Gray and Eric Hornbeak. Ja’ir’s childhood was full of laughter, curiosity, and playfulness. He was energetic, charming, and funny. There was never a dull moment when Ja’ir was in the room. At the age of 12, Ja’ir was diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, a rare autoimmune disease. Though this was a difficult challenge, he never let his illness define him. He faced it with courage and resilience, continuing to live fully. Ja’ir loved to make people laugh, and he had a gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable ones. Whether it was teasing his siblings in a way that made everyone giggle, or finding the humor in life’s challenges, he reminded us that joy is always possible. He was also deeply loving—he gave freely of himself, and his kindness touched everyone who knew him. Ja’ir was a proud junior at Lawrence North High School, where he was known for his kindness, his smile, and the way he connected so easily with others. He was building his future—step by step, day by day—with the same determination and heart he showed in every part of his life. He was a hard worker, always striving to succeed, and he wasn’t afraid to advocate for himself. Ja’ir knew how to stand up for what he believed in, and he carried himself with confidence and courage. He was on track to graduate before his class. He loved being active and spending time with friends playing basketball, fishing, playing his video game and going to the studio. Music also filled Ja’ir’s world—whether he was vibing to his favorite songs or exploring new artists, music was a source of joy, energy, and comfort for him. Ja’ir was proud to begin his very first job at Wendy’s, excited about the independence and responsibility it gave him. Recently, Ja’ir learned how to drive, a milestone that filled him with excitement and pride. He embraced this new independence with enthusiasm, giving his family glimpses of the bright future he was stepping into. At just 16, Ja’ir touched more lives than many do in a lifetime. To his family, he was a beloved son, a bright soul, and a source of endless love and pride. His absence leaves a tremendous void, but his memory will live on in the joy he brought, the passions he pursued, and the love he shared so freely. Ja’ir passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Though his life was far too short, his impact was deep, bright, and lasting. He brought joy, humor, and a warm, uplifting spirit to everyone fortunate enough to know him. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Bridget Green. He leaves behind to cherish his memories his mother: Janay Gray, father: Eric Hornbeak, sisters: Jade Davis, Erykah and Jordyn Hornbeak, brothers: Kaiden, Jacari, Jeremiah, Eric (Jr), and Cartier Hornbeak, maternal grandparents Michele Gray and Jewel Gray, paternal grandfather Robert Bryant Sr, and a host of family and friends. As we say goodbye, we hold on to the gift of Ja’ir’s life. We will carry his laughter in our hearts, his kindness in our actions, and his love in our souls. Though we grieve, we also celebrate the beautiful person he was. Ja’ir, you will always be remembered, always be cherished, and always be loved.

Ja'ir "JA" L Hornbeak

June 29, 2009 - November 25, 2025