SEATTLE — The intersection of East Union Street and 21st Avenue in the Central District now bears the name D'Vonne Pickett Jr. Way.
Last week, the Seattle City Council unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda to pave the way for the renaming. The resolution was written in conjunction with Mayor Bruce Harrell and Pickett’s family to honor his legacy.
Dozens of Pickett Jr.'s family and friends gathered at the intersection for the unveiling Wednesday afternoon.
"This block, this scene as a whole played a major role in his upbringing, who he was, who he is and where his legacy will continue to go," De’Auzjanae Pickett, D'Vonne's sister, said. "It's major. I can just feel my brother right now saying stop playing, stop playing. I can just hear it and he's happy."
The duality of emotions flowed throughout the event. Many there wiped away tears while smiling and reminiscing about their memories of Pickett Jr. and his often said saying "stop playin'.'"
"Today is a good day for me, but it's a sad day for me," Nicky Chappell, Pickett Jr.'s mother said through tears. "I'm so proud, so proud. I just wish my baby was here to celebrate."
Pickett Jr. was shot and killed last October outside the business he ran with his wife, The Postman. The business was named in honor of his grandfather, who worked as a postal carrier for almost 40 years. The man accused of this murder is a former friend. He's been charged with first-degree murder among other charges.
Pickett Jr.'s tragic and traumatic death compounds the impact of gun violence this family has already felt.
"Gun violence killed my cousin D'Vonne Pickett Sr. Gun violence killed my cousin D'vonne Pickett Jr. I'd be remiss if I didn't say that," Jermaine Williams said.
Mayor Bruce Harrell also addressed the role gun violence played in this murder.
"We got to protect our community. Do you understand? We have to protect our community. That is my job as your mayor, but I have to make it clear. I need you," Mayor Harrell said.
Pickett Jr.'s widow, KeAnna Pickett, is honoring his legacy by overseeing business at The Postman. She spoke passionately about her husband still being with their family through his kids and his legacy of impacting lives.
"We have three children, so every morning I see D'Vonne in their face. Every day, I'm reminded that he's still here," KeAnna Pickett said.
Pickett Jr.'s family is hopeful that they will be able to eventually rename the whole street in his honor. A link to the full ceremony with minimal edits is below.