Detroit Lions WR Marvin Jones Jr Discloses Death Of Infant Son

DETROIT, MI —Marvin Jones Jr., a wide receiver for the Detroit Lions, announced the sudden death of his infant son on Friday. Jones wrote of Marlo's death on Instagram.

"Yesterday the Lord called home a piece of my family’s heart, Marlo," Jones wrote in a post Saturday evening. "It is hard to believe that our little angel, our fighter from day one, our son 'Marlito' has unfortunately passed away and is no longer here with us.

"Marlo, the joy that you brought to us everyday, with that smile, and that energy was like heaven on earth. You will always be in our hearts. We will always remember you."

Jones, who is in his sixth season, has sat out most of the second half of the season after suffering an ankle injury.

Last October, Jones brought Marlo with him to an event in which Pampers announced that it would help install 5,000 changing tables in public restrooms by the end of next year.

The Lions released a statement saying that it fully supports Jones and his wife, Jazmyn.

"Marvin and Jazmyn embody the true meaning of family, and the example they set has made them an inspiration to so many in our community," the team said.

"We thank everyone for the outpouring of support."

In his Instagram post, Jones wrote of things that he would never get to experience with his son.

"We did not get the chance to hear your first words (It would’ve been in Spanish too)," he wrote. "We didn’t get to see you run with your brothers and sister, you ran with them with your eyes everyday."

He also wrote of how their family will always hold onto their memories of Marlo.

"We know that everything that We do from here on out will be with you," Jones wrote. "Every step we take, you will be with us. Whenever we have a bad day, We will think of your smile.

"We miss you already buddy and will forever love you. Rest peacefully our sweet baby boy. You have gained your wings."