Cepeda Keemo Cheeks, Sr. was born October 15, 1969 to Steve Edward Lovelace and Laurine Hamilton in St. Louis, MO. He was affectionately known as “Chico.” He departed this life on Sunday, October 6, 2013 at his home in St. Louis, MO. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Herman & Rosie Hamilton and William & Claudia Lovelace, and stepfathers Michael Cheeks and Jimmie Reed. At the age of seven, he developed a passion for sports while playing football and baseball for the Royal Knights. Upon entering high school, he excelled in football and baseball as a Jennings Warrior. Cepeda graduated from Jennings High School in 1987. After graduation, he served four years in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army 1987-1991). Cepeda’s passion for music was influenced by his grandmother Rosie, which led him to pursue a career as a professional Disc Jockey earning him the nickname “The Music Man.” He was currently employed as the Activities Director at Benchmark of St. Charles, where he was well loved and respected by his residents and co-workers. He combined his many talents to give back to the community as a coach for The Redbird Rookies. At the age of 13, he gave his life to Christ. He was baptized at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in St. Louis, MO. His dedication to family was his priority in life. In January 1993, he was blessed with his daughter Janet Mariah Curry (Carol Curry). His life was further enriched with the birth of his son Cepeda Keemo Cheeks, Jr. (Shounda Wilson) in August 1996. Cepeda will always be remembered for his magnetic personality. He wasn’t only a good man, he was the best man. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted mother, Laurine Hamilton; father Steve Lovelace (Betty); daughter Janet Curry; son Cepeda Cheeks, Jr.; brothers: Steve McDaniel, Bryan Brooks, Tyrone Reed, Ryan Harris, Terrell Carruthers; sisters; Ji’Nai Reed, Lajuana Lovelace-Harris (James), Yolonda Lovelace-Horton (William), Tiffiany Lovelace, Stacey Lovelace, Cheryl Brooks, Carla Flowers, Kimberly McClelland, Sheronda Brown, Artrell Reed; God-Mother Cheryl Ray and a host of nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. He also leaves to cherish a devoted friend and companion, Carla Harbor.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cepeda "Chico" Cheeks Sr., please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.