IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION honoring the life, legacy, and community impact of Ceslie "CJ" Anthony Henry, Jr.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22317, June 15, 2026
INTRODUCED BY Jalen Anderson, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Ceslie Anthony Henry, Jr. ("CJ"), born on December 10, 1980, was a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, mentor, artist, and community member whose life touched countless individuals throughout Kansas City and beyond; and,
WHEREAS, born to Hyacinth Henry and Ceslie Anthony Henry, Sr., CJ proudly carried forward the rich Jamaican heritage of his family and shared that heritage with the Kansas City community through music, fellowship, and cultural expression; and,
WHEREAS, CJ loved his family, treasured his friendships, embraced a deeply spiritual outlook on life, and demonstrated extraordinary compassion through acts of kindness, generosity, mentorship, and service to others; and,
WHEREAS, CJ consistently translated his care for others into action, providing food, shelter, encouragement, guidance, and support to those facing hardship, often without seeking recognition or praise; and,
WHEREAS, known to many throughout the Kansas City music community as Vodu, CJ was a gifted musician, songwriter, performer, and founder of the reggae band Jahration and T.A.O., and "SS" sharing his talents with audiences throughout the region and performing at venues, festivals, and community celebrations across the metropolitan area, including the Ethnic Enrichment Festival, the Kansas City Power & Light District, The Bottleneck, the Levy, and numerous other stages where he brought people together through music, culture, and community; and,
WHEREAS, CJ earned recognition for his contribution to a platinum-certified album by the acclaimed musical group Nappy Roots and further expanded his artistic pursuits through acting, including a role in the award-winning short film "Stay Close to Me," directed by Josh Doke;...
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