Takeoff: The Last Memory

Matthew chapter 5 verse 4 states, “Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted.”

The world knew him as Takeoff, but his family knew him as Kirsnick Khari Ball born June 18, 1994. The introverted but extroverted kid that grew up in Gwinnett County, GA. His big hugs, cool demeanor, and smile is what his family and friends stated they will miss most about him. Losing his life to a senseless act of gun violence on November 1, 2022 will be a day his family never forgets. 28 years young the man we knew as Takeoff was laid to rest on Friday, November 11, 2022. Surrounded by family, friends, and fans the Georgia native left a mark on so many lives. Many celebrities came and showed their respect to the falling member of one of the most influential groups of Hip-Hop, the Migos. The City Girls, Teyana Taylor, Gucci Mane, YG, Da Brat, and Zaytoven were amongst the people who attended the service at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, GA.

Justin Bieber paid a heartfelt tribute to Takeoff by performing an acoustic version of his song “Ghost.” During the performance it was obvious that Justin was very emotional and, in the beginning, sat on the stage in silence while the song first started. It was such a beautiful moment as he sang and choked up a few times knowing he will never see his friend again. After, Justin sang a heartfelt song the tears kept rolling down the faces of everyone in the crowd as Drake read a poem reflecting about Takeoff. Chloe Bailey showed her respect by singing, “Heaven” by Beyonce.

The crowd then heard reflections from a very emotional Offset who is one-third of the rap group Migos. Offset’s message was powerful stating that, “Takeoff changed the culture of music forever and he changed the flow of rap.” Offset broke down numerous times during his message to his former group mate but most importantly they were childhood friends. Seeing Offset breakdown touched the souls of everyone that was in attendance. The love that Offset has for Takeoff was very present during that moment on stage.

We also heard heartfelt messages from Takeoff’s music label Quality Control Music the founders Kevin Lee also known as Coach K and his partner Pierre Thomas who is known as “Pee.” They talked about the influence that Takeoff had on the group and when he talked everyone listened. They shared memories of their first interactions, text messages, and praised him for being young but wise beyond his age.

As the service continued, we heard from the most important person in Takeoff’s life his momma. As many of you heard during his time, he would always shoutout his mama in all his rap lyrics. We finally had the chance to hear memories she had of her first born. She reflected of what it was like losing her first born and how a piece of her will never be the same but was at peace because she knew her son was a God-fearing man. She stated that she will miss his hugs, laughs, but most importantly the love that he always shared. Seeing her being strong for her other two kids as they spoke was hard to watch as staff members of the arena walked around handing out tissue for the guest as sobbing continued throughout the service.

We heard from Takeoff’s uncle, Quavo who is also one-third of the rap group the Migos. Quavo reflected about the times when they were kids and Takeoff stated he wanted to be a rapper and influenced him to become a rapper as well. Quavo stated, “That this whole time he has been trying to figure out what Takeoff really was to him. I knew we weren’t brothers because you are my sister’s son, so I couldn’t say brother. I finally get it. You are OUR angel always looking over and protecting us.” This moment was one of the toughest moments to hear because Quavo was with Takeoff when he passed away. As Quavo finished his speak he stated, “Can you ask God for me what I got to do to be with you again.” The sobbing increased because the crowd knew the two were always inseparable. When you saw Takeoff, you saw Quavo and vice versa. They were blood, they were family.

Once the family finished delivering their heartfelt speeches,we were blessed to hear a tribute from Yolanda Adams who beautifully sung “The Battle Is Not Yours.” As the crowd stood on their feet singing along and crying it reminded me that God is always in control and we might not understand the reason why, but God always has a bigger plan.

Pastor Curney of New Mercies Christian Church delivered the eulogy and stated how Takeoff was an active member of the church and he also stated that he had a strong faith with the Lord and was a God-fearing man.

The Mayor of Atlanta Andre Dickens spoke highly about Takeoff’s impact on the city and music culture. He then presented the family with the prestigious Phoenix Award, the City of Atlanta’s highest award.

The service concluded with Bryon Cage uplifting the crowd one last time with a musical selection of the “Presence of the Lord.”

The funeral service was such a heartbreaking yet heart-warming experience. Hearing the memories from the family and the impact he had on the ones around him was touching. Takeoff will truly be missed by family, friends, and fans across the world. He was such an inspiration to everyone he encountered. Love Live Takeoff. Love Live Kirsnick Khari Ball.