Jaylon Malik Abdul-Karim

Jaylon Malik Abdul-Karim, 28, of Dallas, Texas, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025. Born on May 9, 1997, in Dallas, Jaylon was the beloved son of Sandra Denise Reed Burks and Sa’eed Abdul-Karim.

A graduate of Duncanville High School in 2015, Jaylon went on to pursue his passion for Criminal Justice at Navarro College in Corsicana, Texas and Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas.

From an early age, Jaylon’s love for sports was evident to everyone who knew him. A gifted athlete with a powerful drive and a heart full of determination, he excelled on the football field as well as the track throughout his school years and continued to pursue the game he loved through college and beyond. He played for Midwestern State University, Sioux Falls Storms, and Iowa Barnstormers. After achieving one of his proudest milestones, graduating from college and Championship victories, Jaylon carried forward the discipline, teamwork, and courage that defined both his athletic and personal life. 

More than his achievements, Jaylon was known for his big smile and kind heart. Whether offering a word of encouragement to a friend or lifting the spirits of those around him, his presence brought warmth and positivity wherever he went. Family meant everything to Jaylon, and he remained a loving son, brother, and grandson, staying closely connected to those who supported him through every stage of life. Jaylon’s courage and generosity of spirit inspired everyone he met. His legacy extends beyond the field — it lives in the laughter he shared, the love he gave, and the unshakable strength he modeled for others. At 28 years old, the world only had an opportunity to witness a fraction of his joy, wisdom, kindness, and courage. 

He leaves to cherish his memories: his mother, Sandra Burks; father, Sa’eed Abdul-Karim; brother, Jelani Abdul-Karim; sister, Nickia Bottley; grandparents, Martha Reed and Roosevelt & Julia Bottley Taylor; uncles and aunts, Michael Reed (Andrea), Russell Reed (Kara), Anthony Reed, and David Scott (Jamilah), Sharontine Bottley, Madeline Bennett, and Lahoma Haley (Stanley); three nieces, Brianna Bottley, Makayla Watson, Aliyah Bottley, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

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