DEDHAM, MASSACHUSETTS — The community of Dedham is reeling from the devastating loss of Jaylani Cole, a bright and vibrant 20-year-old whose life was tragically cut short on June 25, 2025, in a heartbreaking incident at BJ’s Wholesale Club. The suddenness and violence of Jaylani’s passing have sent waves of shock, sorrow, and disbelief through their family, friends, and the larger Dedham community.
Known for a warm heart, sharp mind, and radiant presence, Jaylani was the kind of person whose energy lit up any room they walked into. Their smile was genuine, their laugh contagious, and their compassion boundless. At just 20 years old, Jaylani had already begun to carve a meaningful path in life — one guided by purpose, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to others.
A recent graduate of Dedham High School, Jaylani had gone on to study at a local community college, where they pursued interests in social work and creative writing. Passionate about uplifting others, Jaylani dreamed of becoming a counselor for at-risk youth, determined to be a source of light and strength for those who, like them, had faced life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
Jaylani also worked part-time while attending school, often juggling multiple responsibilities with quiet determination. Friends and colleagues remember them as kind-hearted, deeply empathetic, and always ready to lend a helping hand — whether that meant staying late to help a coworker close up or spending time listening to a friend in need.
The tragic incident that claimed Jaylani’s life occurred at BJ’s Wholesale Club in Dedham, where a violent altercation shattered the routine of a regular day. Details are still unfolding, but what remains clear is the deep and irreparable wound left behind. The senselessness of the violence — the fact that such a promising life could be lost so quickly — has shaken the community to its core.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, hundreds have gathered online and in person to share memories, tributes, and prayers. A growing memorial outside BJ’s, adorned with flowers, handwritten notes, candles, and photographs, stands as a testament to how many lives Jaylani touched. A community vigil is scheduled for the weekend, where loved ones will honor Jaylani’s memory with song, prayer, and stories.
Jaylani’s family is grappling with unspeakable grief. In a statement released Wednesday morning, they described Jaylani as “a beacon of light in our lives — someone who loved fiercely, dreamed big, and gave selflessly. Our world is emptier without them in it.” They asked for privacy as they begin the difficult journey of mourning, and thanked the community for its outpouring of love and support.
Friends describe Jaylani as a loyal companion, a fierce advocate for justice, and a quiet warrior for love in all its forms. Whether marching in local pride parades, volunteering at food banks, or mentoring younger peers, Jaylani led with a heart open to the world — and now, the world must come to terms with the painful loss of that beautiful spirit.
While Dedham mourns, it also remembers: a voice that spoke truth, a soul that moved gently but boldly through life, and a light that burned brightly — far too briefly. In a time clouded by heartbreak, Jaylani’s memory will endure in the stories shared, the love extended, and the calls for peace and justice that will now echo even louder in their name.
Rest in power, Jaylani Cole. You will never be forgotten.