The Rock Island community mourns the loss of 10-year-old student and athlete Corlon McDuffy, who died from a severe asthma attack on November 6, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois.
Corlon was a fifth-grader at Rock Island Center for Math and Science. He was known for his sharp mind, kind heart, and endless humor.
Teachers and friends say he spoke like someone much older. His smile lit up classrooms and playgrounds alike.
It started as a normal evening. Corlon had an asthma attack in his family home. His mother, Shakenya McDuffy, is a nurse.
She quickly gave him CPR and kept him stable until help arrived. Paramedics rushed him to the hospital. For a few days, there was hope in the ICU.
Family and friends prayed for recovery. But on November 6, Corlon passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Rock Island Future Rocks Basketball shared the sad news.
The Team wrote-:
“Today, our basketball family is grieving the loss of a wonderful young man from our fifth grade program. Corlon was full of life and personality, and he will truly be missed. We send our prayers and deepest condolences to his family in this unimaginable time of grief”
Via Facebook
Born to Shine, Corlon’s Early Life
Corlon McDuffy was born on April 2, 2015, in Moline, Illinois. His parents, Shakenya and Andrew McDuffy, raised him in a large, loving family.
He grew up with 13 siblings: Morrio, DaMorrio, Radell, Coryon, Covon, Andrew, Kamya, Imari, Tishnique, Tanihya, CorShaune, LaShae, and Shacori.
The house was always full of noise, laughter, and support.
Corlon had a special bond with his little brother, Corvon. The two were inseparable. They played together, watched anime, and shared secrets.
Corlon was protective of all the younger kids. He adored his nieces and nephews as well. Family gatherings were his favorite time.
Sports were Corlon’s passion. He played basketball with Future Rocks, football with Little Rocks, and baseball through Rock Island Little League and the Parks & Recreation department.
Coaches loved his attitude. He was coachable, kind, and always lifted his teammates. Win or lose, Corlon encouraged everyone with a smile.
Off the field, he loved video games and anime. Naruto was his top show. He could talk for hours about characters, episodes, and strategies.
Friends say his energy filled every room. Corlon had a little swagger in his step and a sparkle in his eye that made him unforgettable.
The Corlon McDuffy death has left his family facing heavy costs. Funeral expenses, medical bills, and daily living costs can quickly add up.
A GoFundMe was created with a $20,000 goal. It helps cover burial, arrangements, and support for his mother and siblings.
Every donation brings comfort during this tough time. The community has rallied with meals, visits, and kind words.
Corlon is survived by his parents, all his siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. His spirit lives on in their stories and memories.
Friends and family will gather to say goodbye.
Visitation is from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, in the Horizon Room at Trimble Funeral Home at Trimble Pointe, 701 12th Street, Moline.
The funeral service is at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, at the Fieldhouse at Rock Island High School.
Burial follows at Chippiannock Cemetery. Memorials can be made directly to the family.
Corlon’s father has a simple request.
“if you plan to attend the funeral please do not where any t-shirts or hoodies with Corlon on them, that’s ok for the repass not the funeral
Via Facebook
Respectfully“
This helps keep the service formal and focused on peace.
Corlon McDuffy was only 10, but he touched the lives of many. He made people laugh. He shared love freely. His jokes, hugs, and encouragement brightened even the darkest days.
The pain of Corlon McDuffy’s death runs deep. But his family finds strength in the happy memories.
As the community heals, Corlon’s light continues to shine. He reminds us to cherish every moment with the ones we love.
Rest in peace, little star. You will never be forgotten.
