The world feels dimmer following the passing of Deniz Çakır, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, whose warmth, brilliance, and boundless compassion touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing them. Deniz passed away recently, leaving behind their beloved husband, Jari Jones, C.E.O. of Jarrid Jones Photography, along with a loving family, chosen family, and an entire community that adored them.
Born in Princeton, New Jersey, and residing in Philadelphia, Deniz dedicated their life to education, advocacy, and love. They earned an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the Community College of Philadelphia and were pursuing their Bachelor’s Degree in the same field. Those who knew Deniz say teaching wasn’t just a profession — it was an extension of who they were: patient, nurturing, and endlessly giving.
Their husband, Jari Jones, shared a heart-wrenching tribute that captured the depth of their bond:
“It is with unbearable sorrow that I share the passing of the love of my life, my partner, my soulmate, my husband, my best friend. We are never prepared for this kind of loss, for a piece of our soul to be ripped away… Deniz was light personified, and to anyone ever blessed by their warmth, generosity, or fierce protection, you know how dim the world feels without their shine.”
Deniz’s life was defined by love — for people, for justice, and for truth. They lived courageously and unapologetically, embodying compassion and conviction in equal measure. They were a devoted partner, a protective sibling, a loyal friend, and a brilliant educator who believed deeply in liberation for all.
As Jari beautifully reflected:
“For Deniz, it was always ‘Support Black Trans Women’ until the very end. It was ‘From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.’ It was ‘Protect Trans Youth’ at all costs. It was ‘Black liberation is all of our liberation.’ These were not slogans to them — they were sacred truths.”
Friends and loved ones have shared an outpouring of tributes online, each remembering Deniz’s laughter, insight, and kindness. Corey Daniella Kempster wrote:
“This loss is unbearable. Please send Jari your love and prayers. Deniz, you are so cherished — a light that will never dim. Thank you for your compassion and for being the best chosen family anyone could ask for.”
Deniz’s legacy is one of courage, community, and deep love — for their students, their people, and their world. They lived with purpose and fought for liberation with tenderness and strength. Their presence was transformative; their absence, unimaginable.
As the community grieves, Jari has asked for love, stories, laughter, and prayers in Deniz’s honor, reminding everyone to hold space for one another and to cherish every moment of connection.
Service details will be shared soon, and loved ones are encouraged to honor Deniz by continuing their fight for justice and equality — the causes they held closest to their heart.
Rest in Power, Deniz Çakır.
Your light will never fade; it will live on through every life you touched and every truth you helped bring to light.