Isiah Pacheco, the talented running back for the Kansas City Chiefs, has not only made headlines for his impressive performances on the football field but also for the personal tragedies he has faced in his life. Pacheco’s journey is marked by the heartbreaking loss of two of his siblings, which has profoundly shaped his character and drive as an athlete.
This article delves into what happened to Isiah Pacheco’s siblings, Travoise and Celeste Cannon, and how their memories continue to inspire him.
The Loss of Travoise Cannon
On January 10, 2016, tragedy struck the Pacheco family when Isiah’s older brother, Travoise Cannon, was fatally stabbed at the age of 29. The incident occurred in his apartment building in Bridgeton, New Jersey. The circumstances surrounding Travoise’s death were devastating for Isiah and their family.
The accused attacker claimed self-defense and ultimately received a three-year probation sentence after pleading to third-degree hindering/hiding evidence.
Isiah Pacheco's Siblings: All About Travoise, Ricky, Felicia and Celeste https://t.co/wUHUBbaWEn
— People (@people) September 5, 2024
Isiah has often reflected on the impact of losing his brother, describing Travoise as a significant influence in his life. In interviews, he shared that Travoise was instrumental in encouraging him to pursue football and taught him valuable life lessons.
The bond they shared was evident, with Isiah stating, “Ever since I was a child, [my brother] has been keeping an eye out for me.”
The Death of Celeste Cannon
Just under two years later, on September 20, 2017, Isiah faced another devastating loss when his sister Celeste Cannon was found shot in her home in Millville, New Jersey.
She was a mother of three and had a close relationship with Isiah, who described her as “like a best friend.” Celeste’s death left a profound void in Isiah’s life and further compounded the grief he had already experienced with Travoise’s passing.
The perpetrator of Celeste’s murder, Donald Scurry Jr., was apprehended and is currently serving a 65-year prison sentence for his crime.
Isiah Pacheco's late siblings tragic deaths spur his drive for greatness https://t.co/miDCI85D2c pic.twitter.com/7YFGTzmAcG
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) January 28, 2023
In the wake of her death, Isiah expressed his deep sorrow and longing for her presence, stating, “I still think about my sister to this day. I miss her a lot. It’s very hard.”
Coping with Loss and Honoring Their Memory
The tragic deaths of Travoise and Celeste have fueled Isiah Pacheco’s determination on the football field. He often dedicates his performances to their memory, using their loss as motivation to succeed.
Pacheco has tattoos on his arms that honor both siblings, serving as a permanent reminder of their influence in his life.
In interviews, he has shared how he channels his grief into his passion for football: “Having an opportunity to play ball — it helps me a lot not worrying about the tragedies that happened.
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It makes me want to go harder.” His commitment to honoring their memory is evident in how he plays—often seen praying before games or dedicating touchdowns to them.
Family Legacy
Despite the heartache he has endured, Isiah Pacheco remains close to his family and continues to support Celeste’s children. He is actively involved in introducing his nephew to football, ensuring that the legacy of his late siblings lives on through future generations.
He expressed joy at spending time with his nephew while also feeling sadness over what could have been if Celeste were still alive.
As he continues to excel in the NFL—having won Super Bowl LVII and LVIII—Isiah Pacheco carries the memories of Travoise and Celeste with him every step of the way. Their stories serve not only as a source of strength but also as a reminder of the importance of family and resilience in overcoming adversity.
Conclusion
Isiah Pacheco’s journey is marked by both triumph and tragedy. The loss of his siblings has profoundly shaped who he is today—both as an athlete and as a person.
By honoring Travoise and Celeste through his achievements on the field and maintaining close ties with his family, Pacheco exemplifies resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. As he continues to make strides in his professional career, their memories will undoubtedly remain a driving force behind his success.
