River, Jamal

Jamal River, nee Areli River, born and raised in Iowa City, chose to end his life on July 27, 2013. He suffered for more than a decade from severe MS pain that no one was able to help him with. He was a wonderful, brilliant and gifted being who was probably too sensitive for this world. He was a musician, composer, actor and visual artist, and a loving, deeply caring person. He was a pacifist and idealist and a joyful presence before the unending pain took such a heavy toll. We who knew and loved him best are shattered by his death and miss him more deeply than can ever be stated but understand that he endured as long as he was able and we have some comfort in knowing that he now is free from the horrible pain and is at eternal peace.

He leaves to honor his life and to mourn his passing his mother, Sage River of Iowa City; his sister, Lisa (Tom) McTaggart and her daughters, Morgan and Cassie, and son, Chance, all from the Iowa City area; and his sister, Lorie River, and her children, Dustin and Karlie, from the Cedar Rapids area. He also leaves his dear friend and steadfast companion, Alyssa Bowman of Iowa City, as well as many others who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his niece, MacKenzie Ashlyn Cahill; and his beloved friend Rick LaMartina, who became a lifelong friend and father figure, beginning as a Big Brother to Jamal when he was 7, and remaining close friends until Rick's death in 2011.

Private services for family and close friends will be held through Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service. Donations to honor Jamal's life may be made to or . Online condolences may be sent for his family through the Web at .

Published July 30, 2013 in The Gazette