Sgt. Justin Tyrone Sykes

Sergeant Justin Tyrone Sykes, age 24, passed away on August 18, 2026. He was born on November 15, 2001, in Cleveland, Ohio, and was raised in Kansas City, Missouri, where he learned to speak French. He would return to Twinsburg, Ohio, where he developed the many interests, talents, and friendships that would remain an important part of his life.

Growing up, Justin was active, curious, and full of personality. He played both football and basketball, enjoyed talking about cars, and was an avid video game enthusiast. Whether competing on the field, spending time with family and friends, or sharing one of his interests, Justin brought enthusiasm and energy to the people around him. He graduated from Twinsburg High School in 2021.

On July 13, 2021, Justin answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army as a Fire Control Specialist (13J). He completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, followed by Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Justin's first duty assignment took him to Camp Humphreys, South Korea, where he served as a member of the Second Infantry Division. Throughout his four years of military service, Justin accepted positions of increasing responsibility, serving as a Fire Control Specialist, Tactical Data System Operator, Joint Fire Support Specialist, and ultimately as a Fire Control Sergeant.

Through each assignment, Justin contributed to the readiness and mission of the Second Infantry Division while continuing to grow as both a Soldier and a leader. His service, however, was about more than his responsibilities and accomplishments. To those who served beside him, Justin was a valued member of their team—their "Tribe." He was known, respected, and loved by those fortunate enough to serve alongside him.

In recognition of his dedicated service, Justin received numerous awards and decorations, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Superior Unit Award, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon**, and a Certificate of Achievement.

Beyond the uniform, Justin was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving spouse, Inyeong Oh; his beloved daughter, Jisoo Sykes; his mother, Nicole Gales; his father, Tyrone Sykes; his brothers, Jaylen, Tyrone Jr., Tristian and Jonathan Howard, Jr.; his sister, Adrianne; as well as extended family including Cyrus Words and Tiffany Drain, fellow Soldiers, friends, and all whose lives were touched by his presence.

Sergeant Justin Tyrone Sykes lived with purpose, served his country with honor, and loved with all his heart. His life was far too brief, but the impact he made—as a Soldier, leader, husband, father, son, brother, and friend—will not be forgotten. His legacy will continue in the family he loved, the Soldiers who stood beside him, and the memories carried by all who knew him.

He served with honor. He loved deeply. He will be remembered always.