Eric Gardy Lopez Jr., affectionately known as E.J., gained his angel wings on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the age of 27. He passed peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by love. Though he spent much of his life in a wheelchair, E.J.'s spirit moved freely—radiating joy, resilience, and quiet strength. After 27 deeply meaningful years on this earth, he was ready to rise and walk through the gates of Heaven.

Born on December 31, 1997, in Hyannis, Massachusetts, to EbonyRose (Fox) Weatherless, E.J. was a sweet, cheerful, chubby baby. As he grew, it became clear that his life would follow a path that demanded courage, strength, and special care. He lived with his devoted mother and beloved grandmother, Rose, who adored him. Later, his life was beautifully enriched when his mother's fiancé, Micheal Weatherless, stepped in and embraced E.J. as his own—with unwavering love, care, and the heart of a true father.

The family eventually moved to Virginia, where E.J. was warmly welcomed by Micheal's extended family. In 2000, E.J. became a big brother to Victor. As a newborn, Victor's cries often brought laughter from E.J.—a bond formed early and strong. Five years later, his sister Mykala arrived, quickly becoming his best friend and closest companion. Soon after came his youngest brother, Davion, completing a loving and joyful sibling circle.

Throughout his life, E.J. was blessed with the faithful love and fierce devotion of his mother, EbonyRose Weatherless. She fought every battle by his side, never leaving his corner as his loyal caregiver and greatest advocate. Over 27 years, E.J. never spent a night alone although there were many overnight stays in the hospital.  He could feel confident that when he peeked to the left, "mamma bear" was always there.  Her strength, patience, and unconditional love were the foundation that supported E.J. through every challenge and triumph. EbonyRose's tireless dedication shaped his world with comfort, joy, and boundless hope.

Over the years, E.J. faced countless doctor visits, hospital stays, and surgeries—all aimed at improving his comfort and quality of life. Yet never once did he complain. He met every challenge with his signature smile, infectious laugh, and quiet strength. His sense of humor was one of his most endearing qualities—he loved to "play possum" when things got boring, cracking his eyes open just a bit before drifting back to sleep. He was known for his playful swats and giggles, and for being a true ladies' man—especially fond of the well-endowed ones. E.J. also adored his two puppies, who were fiercely protective of him and loved nothing more than to jump on his bed and shower him with kisses.

E.J.'s eyes—almond-shaped and full of light—seemed to speak directly to the heart. Anyone who met him couldn't help but fall in love.

E.J. was educated in the Hanover County school system. He began preschool at Pole Green Elementary, then spent time at Cold Harbor Elementary with a loving bus driver and attendant. From there, he moved on to Rural Point Elementary for three wonderful years before attending Oak Knoll Middle School for the next four. His educational journey continued at Atlee High School, where he and his classmates spent five memorable years together. Every step of the way, he was surrounded by teachers, aides, attendants, and drivers who genuinely cared for him.

He participated in countless activities during his school years—field trips, football games, dances, and a local Special Olympics event called the Big Feet Meet. E.J. even played on the "All Stars" Special Education Basketball Team. His nickname? E.J. "The JuiceMan" Lopez. He proudly graduated in 2019, crossing the stage with the help of his classmate Isaac.

As an adult, E.J. continued to enjoy a vibrant life filled with activities and community events. He attended craft sessions, dances, campfires, baseball games—even a beauty pageant. He was a proud guest at the Night to Shine prom and was a regular at birthday and holiday parties. For the past 13 years, E.J. lived on Drinkard Court in Mechanicsville, spending treasured time with his mom, dad, brother, and sister. He loved watching action movies with surround sound in the living room or at the theater, and he spent many happy hours in his room watching his favorite adult cartoon shows and laughing to himself. He enjoyed having visitors—family or friends, it didn't matter—and loved going out to restaurants and shopping trips to the mall.

Family meant everything to E.J., and his family made sure to fill his life with joy and adventure. He went on unforgettable vacations, including Carnival Cruises to tropical destinations, and visited Universal Studios, Disney World, Kings Dominion, Busch Gardens, the State Fair, and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Every experience was made brighter with E.J. by their side.

He also shared a special bond with his grandparents and great-grandparents, who comforted him with endless love and affection. They delighted in feeding E.J. until his belly poked out and lovingly massaged his arms and legs to ease the tightness in his limbs. Surrounding E.J. was a whole community of extended family, neighbors, and friends who stepped up whenever he needed them. They greeted him at the bus stop, cared for him after school, and even built a ramp to help him move more easily in and out of his home. One of his dearest friends, Lil Marlon, who earned his wings before E.J., passed along his wheelchair-accessible van—an act of love and brotherhood that meant the world to his family. E.J. was truly loved by all who crossed his path, and every morning he woke up was nothing short of a miracle.

E.J. was preceded in death by his great-grandparents Jimmy Carter, Phillip Fox Sr. and Margaret Fox.

E.J. leaves behind his parents, EbonyRose and Micheal Weatherless; grandparents Lewis Fox and Rose Fox, Brenda Winston, and Micheal Weatherless Sr.; great-grandparents Eva Munn; siblings Victor Weatherless, Mykala Weatherless, and Davion Weatherless; uncles Lorenzo Weatherless and C.J. Winston; and aunts Kimberly Weatherless, Stacy Norris, and Tracy Curtis.

Honorable mentions go to the many dear friends and extended family who supported E.J. throughout his life: Terry and Kerri Henderson, Patricia, Isaiah and Isaac Abel, Sue and Ron Sexton, and Marlon, Crystal, Lil' Marlon, and Tyler McCormick.

E.J. may have never spoken a word, but his smile, laugh, and spirit spoke volumes. His presence brought joy, his courage inspired all, and his memory will live on in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to have known him.

MEMORIES

Death leaves heartache, No one can heal.

Memories are treasures, No one can steal.

Some may forget you, Now that you are gone,

But we will remember, No matter how long.

You will always stay, loved and remembered.

In every way,

No tears, No verse,

Can ever say how much,

We miss you every day.