Memorial for Jeromy Chandler

Jeromy Chandler, whose street name was “Lazy Boi” was unhoused, twenty-six, and well-loved in the Portland street community. He was found dead in the Willamette River last week. His street family held an informal memorial at the Salmon Street Fountain this evening, led by Art Rios, who offered a prayer, burned sage, and smudged all who wanted smudging. Jeromy’s friends lit candles, spoke their memories and feelings, and held a vigil by the river. Speakers included his partner, the mother of his daughter; his sister; and many of his close friends. Art asked me to take pictures of the memorial, and the stories of hardship and loss were gut-wrenching, although the love was palpable--the love for Jeromy and for each other--and many of the speakers told hilarious stories of Jeromy's adventures and his generosity.

Some speakers said they believe Jeromy is in “a better place” because “life out here is so hard.” At one point Art called out a litany of the names of unhoused people who have died this year. I lost track of the number. Despite the solidarity of the community of unhoused people who protect each other, life in the streets is high-risk.

I took over 300 pictures, some with my old Nikon and some with the new Ricoh. There's a set of black and whites here, and a set of color pictures here.