Dontore Terrell Morehead

Dontore Morehead, lovingly known as “Tori,” passed away on September 8, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 29, after a lifelong and courageous battle with sickle cell disease.

Born in Phoenix on August 7, 1996, to Latrice and Donnie, Dontore came into the world weighing just one pound, seven ounces. A true miracle baby, he spent he first two months of his life at Good Samaritan Hospital before coming home. From the very beginning, Tori was a fighter.

Over the years, he built a deep, enduring relationship with the medical team at he Children’s Hospital of Phoenix—named a “Best Children’s Hospital” by U.S. News & World Report. That connection lasted 18 years and speaks volumes about both the care he received and the strength and spirit he brought to every challenge.

Tori’s radiant smile could light up any room. He was kind, spirited, and full of warmth—someone whose presence made others feel seen, heard, and loved. He cherished time with his family and friends, and his joyful, humorous nature left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud graduate of Westview High School in Avondale, AZ, Tori pursued a vocational focus in construction. He also had a deep love for the arts, particularly music, and was a formidable opponent in the world of video gaming. Creative, outgoing, and generous, he had a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Tori was preceded in death by his great-grandmother Earnestine, his grandmother Toya, his grandfather Marlon Hunter, his uncle Marlon Morehead, and other family members.

He is survived by his devoted parents, his aunt, brothers, sisters, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. hough he is no longer with us in body, the love, laughter, and light Tori brought into our lives will live on eternally.