Deon Derrico shared the heartbreaking news that his nephew Amani Barkley has passed away after a long and courageous battle with autoimmune hepatitis.
“My Family, friends, and fans …It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my loving nephew Amani Barkley!” the Doubling Down With the Derricos star, 53, wrote via social media on Saturday, July 20. “Our family is devastated.”
Derrico went on to express his gratitude for the time he had with Amani, saying, “In this short time, we have built a bond with Amani, and merged our families forever!”
The reality star asked his followers to “pray” for the family as they mourn their loss, and shared that in lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted to Derrico and his mother Marian’s joint foundation, which benefits liver transplant patients and cancer patients.
Hollywood has mourned many celebrities in 2024, including Speed Racer star Christian Oliver, who died at the age of 51 in a fatal plane crash.
“While GG, and I, are here in Detroit, for the funeral we will be updating you all with more details!” Derrico continued. “We thank you all for your love and prayers and please know, although Amani has transitioned over to JESUS, your prayers were answered as GODs will was done! We Thank You, Amen.”
Barkley is survived by his son, Adonis, and mother Stacey.
Deon’s ex-wife, Karen Derrico, shared her own heartfelt tribute for Barkley following the news of his death.
“Rest well Amani! Thank you for all your texts, calls, DM’s, prayers, donations, and support!” Karen, 44, captioned a Sunday, July 21, Instagram Reel of Barkley spending quality time with her and Deon’s 14 children. “This is extremely devastating to our family, and we love each and everyone for all that has been done! ❤️❤️🙏🏾.”
Fans were introduced to Barkley during season 4 of Doubling Down With the Derricos after a DNA test confirmed he and Deon were related.
The family learned that Barkley had battled autoimmune hepatitis, which can cause cirrhosis or liver failure, since he was 14 years old and required multiple liver transplants. Earlier this year, Karen set up a GoFundMe for Barkley, raising more than $17,000 for medical bills and other necessities.
In June, Barkley received a liver transplant, which was believed to be successful at the time, but his body rejected the organ before he underwent a third and final transplant.
