Last year, football legend Ray Lewis suffered a heartbreaking loss when his son, Ray Lewis III, tragically passed away at 28. Lewis III was found unconscious in a Florida home on June 15, and a drug overdose is suspected to be the cause. 

Like his famous father, Lewis III loved football. He began his football journey in high school at Lake Mary Prep and later played as a running back for the Miami Hurricanes and Coastal Carolina University. He then turned his attention to music for a while, releasing a few songs, but stayed involved in football with the Virginia Union Panthers until his sudden passing. Soon, his tragic death news hit the headlines, devastating his family as well as the sports world. A year later, Ray Lewis is back again, paying tribute to his son and celebrating his life and achievements at Virginia Union. 

Ray Lewis honors son’s posthumous college graduation

Football legend Ray Lewis recently shared a touching tribute on Instagram, holding a college degree of his late son. “My son, I’m so proud of you,” he wrote. “Heaven called you, but thanks to Virginia Union we grabbed your degree for you today baby boy.” Ray Lewis III played for the University from 2017-2018, recording 37 tackles and three tackles for loss.

Lewis continued his heartfelt post, saying, “We will see you again soon enough, to all the other families whose children didn’t make it to walk cross the stage. God Bless you!!! Celebrate every step our children take it life, even the steps we don’t like. Ray 3rd “we made today a great day!!!” Lewis’s emotional words show he’s still deeply affected by the tragic loss of his son.

Ray Lewis III’s memory lives on through father’s tribute

The death news of Lewis III came out of the blue, sending a major shock to the NFL community. Initially, paramedics found him unresponsive in a Florida home after a 911 call. Despite attempts to revive him with CPR and Narcan, he tragically passed away within hours. His autopsy revealed a mix of drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl in his system. However, his death was ruled accidental, sparking controversy and sadness.

The renowned Ravens’ star remained silent while grieving his loss. However, during the obituary a week later, he broke his silence with a moving “We will see you again“ speech, reminiscing about his son and expressing his faith in a future reunion. Now, months later, Lewis has shared another heartfelt tribute, showing his enduring love and grief for his son.