Ay'Din Damir Henning

Ay’Din Damir Henning was born on June 4, 2012, in Oak Park, Illinois, to Anton and Sheena Henning. A devoted son, brother, and beloved grandson, Ay’Din was preceded in death by his grandmother, Irene Owens-Smith, and his great-grandparents, Rosie Kitchen, John and Laura B. Collins, and Julius and Josephine Henning. At the age of six, Ay’Din accepted Christ and became a member of Great True Vine M.B. Church, guided by the late
Pastor John E. Collins Sr.

In August 2024, Ay’Din became unexpectedly ill, initially thought to be a concussion, but by December 2024, he was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. Ay’Din proudly remained prayerful, faithful, and filled with God’s peace, often lifting the spirits of those around him with his words: “Don’t worry about me, GOD has me, He’s in control, and I am HEALED!” Throughout his courageous battle, he demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience.

This year, Ay’Din was an 8th-grade student, home schooled through KIPP Academy, with hopes of returning to his home school, St. Angela’s Catholic School where he would have celebrated graduation alongside his classmates. 

Ay’Din was truly the “LIFE” of every gathering, touching everyone around him with his affectionate nature, joyful spirit, loving personality, and, of course, his one-of-a-kind dancing skills.

Ay’Din discovered his love for football at an early age, and it quickly became his true passion. Whether at practice, in games, or playing with his brothers, he gave his all with joy and determination. He played for the Windy City Dolphins (2022 Conference Champions), affectionately known as “Yellow Shoes”, MIDWEST BOOM 7v7 National Team, competing against all-star teams across the country. Ay’Din’s biggest accomplishment was in 2023, while playing with the “Addison Cowboys” under Head Coach/President Dino Cardone and his coaching staff (after going undefeated the entire season winning both State and Regional Championships) had the opportunity to compete and win the Pop Warner Division 2 11u National Championship in Orlando Florida. Known for his boundless energy, kind heart, and infectious laughter, Ay’Din touched the lives of everyone around him, leaving a lasting impression that will be cherished forever.

He is lovingly remembered by his devoted parents, Anton and Sheena Henning; his brothers, Kevin Smith Jr. (KJ), Anton Henning Jr. (AJ), and Ashton Henning, along with his bonus brother, Maurice Jefferson; his cherished godparents, Sinclair and Sr., and Annie Collins; his beloved bonus grandparents, Dr. Diana Body and Kenya Brown (Eon); and his great-grandmother, Barbara Funches. He is also survived by his aunts, Edwina Owens, Alvina Peterson, and Latrinia Owens; his uncles, Anthony Henning Jr. (Sheila), Andre Henning Sr. (Gwenetta), Tyrone Smith (Jasmine), and Demonta Smith; his bonus aunts, Shantae Hall-Ware, Rashida Locke (Krystal), and Rashaunda Patterson; his bonus uncles, Kevin Brooks (KJ) and Michael Brooks (Brittany); and a host of beloved cousins, extended family, and friends.

Ay’Din’s strength, joy, faith, and unforgettable presence will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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