Still Beating in Rhythm: Jennifer Awele’s Heartfelt Birthday Message to Junior Pope

 

Jenifer Awele and Late Junior Pope

Jennifer Awele, the widow of beloved actor Junior Pope, took to Instagram to mark what would have been his 45th birthday in a deeply emotional tribute.

She posted a video showing Junior Pope laughing and playing with their kids—an intimate glimpse of happier times. Alongside it, she recalled a sweet memory from 2010 when he first told her his birthday was on "the last day of the first week of May." She’d guessed, “May 7th?” and he’d responded with a proud clap, calling her smart.

Now, on May 7, 2025, Jennifer shared how painful it is to face this day without him. Instead of her usual birthday surprises—she says she never missed a single one—she's left with only tears and memories. “Not with candles and cakes,” she wrote, “but with a heart that still beats in rhythm with yours.”

Though she had much to say, she admitted that words failed her in the moment. “Happy 45th birthday, our Daddy in Heaven. We carry your love in everything we do. Keep watching over us, Debonair.”

Junior Pope passed away in a tragic boat accident on April 10, 2024, while filming. Since then, Jennifer has continued to honor his memory—most recently on the one-year anniversary of his death. In that post, she shared the emotional weight of raising their three sons, Jason, Jaden, and Jamon, alone. She mentioned the boys still ask about the things he promised—like enrolling them in football school or buying Jamon a toy car—questions that now pierce even deeper.

Even in loss, Jennifer’s messages remain filled with love, grief, and strength, painting a picture of a family holding tight to the legacy of a man they dearly miss.