Justin Jovon Hope, 31, died in Cleveland, Ohio, on October 3, 2023. Known to friends as Jerk, he was born August 27, 1992, and raised by his mother Marchelle Lawshea Peterson and the late Johnnie Hope. Baptized at New Joshua Missionary Baptist Church and a Cleveland Public Schools student, he loved basketball and was remembered for his radiant smile and readiness to help others.

Justin is survived by his mother; his unborn daughter, Justyce Amour Hope; many siblings, nieces, nephews, a great-niece, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. He was preceded in death by his father and other relatives. A public viewing was held October 13, 2023, at Gaines Funeral Home in Maple Heights, followed by a wake and funeral service on October 14.

No circumstances of the death, suspects, or arrests have been released. If anyone has information that could help investigators, please contact local law enforcement.