Detroit Lions player Marvin Jones suffers unimaginable loss during holiday season

“Yesterday the Lord called home a piece of my family’s heart, Marlo,” Jones said in the touching post. “It is hard to believe that our little angel, our fighter from day one, our son ‘Marlito’ has unfortunately passed away and is no longer here with us. Marlo, the joy that you brought to us every day, with that smile, and that energy were like heaven on earth. You will always be in our hearts. We will always remember you.”

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In addition to mourning the loss of what his son brought to their family’s lives, Jones also expressed the sadness of losing what could have been.

“We did not get the chance to hear your first words (It would’ve been in Spanish too),” he continued.

“We didn’t get to see you run with your brothers and sister, you ran with them with your eyes every day. We know that everything that we do from here on out will be with you. Every step we take, you will be with us. Whenever we have a bad day, We will think of your smile. We miss you already buddy and will forever love you. Rest peacefully our sweet baby boy. You have gained your wings.”

According to CNN, prior to Marlo’s passing, Jones, his wife Jasmyn and children, which include three sons and a daughter, shared a heartfelt Christmas video also featuring Marlo where they wished fans a “Merry Christmas.” Jones was also known to post several pictures of Marlo and his other children on his Instagram page as well.

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The Detroit Lions released a statement regarding Jones’ family tragedy.

“The Detroit Lions fully support Marvin and Jazmyn during this extremely difficult time. Marvin and Jazmyn embody the true meaning of family, and the example they set has made them an inspiration to so many in our community. We thank everyone for the outpouring of support,” the team wrote in a statement posted to Twitter.

According to PEOPLE, Jones has been on injured reserve since earlier this month, but the Green Bay Packers, who are scheduled to play the Lions on Sunday, also released a statement via Twitter in support of Jones and his family:

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the Jones family & the Lions organization during this difficult time.”