Jamar Keir Ferrell, affectionately known as “Maury,” was born on January 23, 1969, in Philadelphia, Pa., to Willie and Willa Mae (Kittrels) Ferrell. He was the fourth of the Ferrells’ six sons. On January 15, 2012, Jamar entered into eternal rest after a yearlong battle with lymphoma. His family and friends will gather on Saturday, April 14, 2012, in a private ceremony in a “Tribute to our Gem.”
Jamar received his education in the Penn Wood School system and graduated from Penn Wood High School in 1986. During his school years, Jamar was a great little league pitcher and also excelled in track and field. The triple jump was his specialty.
Jamar’s first job was working in the family’s business, Ferrell Franks, which was located in the Gallery in Center City. It was here where he met his true love Sitti Moses. After years of courtship, they joined hands in marriage on June 11, 1994. Anyone in their presence could see and feel their love for one another. Sitti was constantly at his side during the final stages of his illness, as were many other family members.
Jamar joined Horizon House as an employment training specialist in 1993. He was a strong advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities and dedicated his personal and professional career to enhancing their lives.
Jamar’s true passion was music. He was known as “DJ Brother Jamar.” He was in popular demand for birthday parties, clubs, block parties, weddings and anniversaries. He shared his mixing skills on Power 99 FM radio station on Sunday nights with host Tiffany Bacon. Jamar rocked everything from rare to classic R&B, soul, disco, funk and hip hop.
He will be remembered for his willing spirit, his generosity in sharing his knowledge and wisdom and giving invaluable advice to others.
He is survived by his wife, Sitti; parents, Willie and Willa Mae Ferrell; brothers, Terryl (Shawn), Stephen (Cydney), Lamonte (Gwendolyn), Jacin and Dion (Tiffany); three nieces; three nephews; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Muisha and Bob Barnett; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
