Zhariyah Miriam Lee Dunn

Zhariyah Miriam Lee Dunn, lovingly known as Tutu, Honey Bunn, Zhar, Tootie, Doobutt, Tinky, Gigi baby, and Stinkama, passed away on January 9, 2026, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, at the tender age of three. Born on August 23, 2022, in Toledo, Ohio, Tutu was a bright light, radiating joy and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

From her earliest days, Tutu was a force of nature, delighting her family with her infectious smile and spirited personality. She would often walk into a room, proclaiming her favorite phrase, "I love you!" This sweet sentiment became a hallmark of her vibrant spirit, as she endeared herself to all she encountered. Her family affectionately regarded her as "the Boss Baby," the one who reigned supreme in their hearts and home.

Tutu’s love for life was evident in her many hobbies and interests. She adored the great outdoors, often described as a nature baby who preferred flowers and dirt over toys, finding joy in the simplest of pleasures. Whether she was singing and dancing or playing the playful game of "got your nose," Tutu illuminated her surroundings with laughter and love. Her family often noted her old soul, as she enjoyed music that resonated deeply with her, far beyond her tender years. Tutu loved unicorns, babies and her favorite day was "Wednesday".

With a passion for her favorite television shows like "Sponge Bob", "Gracie's Corner", "Minnie Mouse", and "Hello Kitty", Tutu’s playful spirit never dimmed. She loved having her picture taken, always striking the perfect pose, adding to the cherished memories captured by her family.

Tutu leaves behind her devoted family, including her loving mother, Abryia Ballard, and father, Jason Dunn Jr. Grandparents ShaRon Cowson and her fiancé Deshawn Massie (grandfather), Jason Dunn Sr. (Grandfather), James Ballard(Grandfather), Angela Lockridge(Grand Mother), and great-grandparents Wanda Cowson, Leroy Lockridge, Sandra Dunn, and Althea Ballard and her husband David, Antionetta Green(Great Grandmother) and her Husband Waltee Green(Great Grandfather), James Walker (Great Grandfather) , as well as a host of aunts, uncles: James Ballard II (uncle) and Takiya Williams (aunt), Shane Cowson (uncle) Joseph Massie Uncle) Santana Massie (uncle), Ty'Shawn Massie (uncle), Zyion Massie (uncle), Waltee Green Jr (uncle) Jaylon Ballard (uncle), Lloyd Anderson (uncle), Jeremiah Holmes (uncle), Shaliya Mixon (aunt), Julia Anderson (aunt), Lynzetta Massie (Grand aunt), Kamari Ballard (aunt), Olivia Ballard (aunt),Tiondra Green (Grand aunt) Janae Ballard (aunt), Chemise Snowden (Special aunt), Jay'Vionte Dunn (uncle), Jay'Cion Dunn (uncle), Camron Williams (uncle), Ja'Nayla Dunn (aunt), Mia Henry (great aunt) and husband Terrance, April Adams (great aunt), Alysia Hamilton (great aunt) and husband JuJuan, Quincy Cowson (Great Uncle)and Wife Keya Cowson(Grand Aunt) Joseph Villalpando (great-uncle), Stacie Hutchen and her husband David (Grand aunt and uncle), David Penn (great-uncle), Zymir Williams (cousin in love), Cameran Hamilton (cousin), Cayden Hamilton (cousin), Mariah Penn (cousin), Logan Penn (cousin), Cabarre Wright (cousin) and other cousins who will forever treasure her memory. Her beloved godparents, Montana Walker, Ahnalyce Ball, and Phillip Walker Jr., Special God Mother Shelley Bell. along with a caring extended family, stand by her side as they commemorate the light she brought into their lives. She was preceded in death by Leanna Lockridge (Grand aunt) Sharmay Ballard (Grand Aunt) Bertha Cunningham (Great Great Grandmother) Thomas Cowson (Grand Uncle) Shireen Marshall (Grand Aunt), Pie Coker (uncle) and Carlene Penn (Great Great Grandmother).

Tutu’s warmth and vivacity will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her love for peanut "M&M's", chocolate treats, "Jelly-Jelly" sandwiches, and "Tic Tacs" will remain sweet reminders of her joyful spirit. As we reflect on the precious moments shared with Tutu, we hold her memory close, forever cherishing the impact she had on our lives. May she continue to SHINE brightly in our hearts as we remember her laughter, her love, and the sunshine she brought to our days. Tutu loved to paint and color, she loved to show her creativity. Our precious little angel will always live in our hearts.