Jamie Foxx’s Sister DeOndra Dixon Dies, Actor Says His Heart ‘Is Shattered Into A Million Pieces’

Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx announced the death of his beloved sister, DeOndra Dixon, in a heartfelt Instagram post this week. While Dixon was born with Down Syndrome, Foxx said she lived a full and eventful life.

The grieving actor posted numerous pictures of him attending multiple high-profile events along with his sister. The post caption that read, “My heart is shattered into a million pieces… my beautiful, loving sister Deondra has transitioned… I say transitioned because she will always be alive… anyone who knew my sis… knew that she was a bright light… I can’t tell you how many times we have had parties at the house where she has got on the dance floor and stolen the show… even gave her boyfriend @chrisbrownofficial a run for his money. Well I know she is in heaven now dancing with her wings on…tho my pain is unbelievable I smile when I think of all of the great memories that she left me… my family… and her friends… from dancing in the blame it video… to Dancing on the Grammys… And becoming The ambassador to @globaldownsyndrome… from sliding down my stairs with a grin as wide as the rio grand… to serenading us with all of her music… Deondra you have left A hole in my heart… but I will fill it with all of the memories that you gave me … I love you with every ounce of me… our family is shattered but we will put the pieces back together with your love… and y’all please keep my family in your prayers…”

Foxx described Dixon as a longtime fan of Chris Brown, who shared her lifelong love of dance expressed at a young age, which Foxx indulged by allowing her to perform in videos and on stage, most notably at his performance in the Grammys. She acted as ambassador to The Global Down Syndrome Foundation, receiving its highest honor, the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award, which was created in her honor. The foundation’s founder called Dixon “one of the most articulate, irrepressible, magnetic people” he had ever known. Dixon had been an attendee at the foundation’s Be Beautiful Be Yourself fashion show every year and, according to their website, would display her dancing prowess.

The official cause of death has not been released; although, those with Down Syndrome are known to have much shorter lifespans even with the advances in medical care made in past decades.