The Jacksonville community prepares to say goodbye to Lil Poppa this weekend. The rising Florida rapper, born Janarious Wheeler, will be memorialized Saturday, March 7, at Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church in his hometown—an open invitation extended by his family to fans and supporters who wish to pay their respects.
His sister, Orieon Wheeler, shared service details via social media (per XXL), noting the 10 a.m. ET ceremony will operate under tight security protocols. Attendees should expect onsite security and a strict no-recording policy—phones, Meta glasses, and similar devices will be prohibited, as will handbags and purses.
For those unable to attend in person, the family will stream the service live on Lil Poppa’s official YouTube page, ensuring broader access while maintaining the dignity of the moment.
The 25-year-old artist, known for hits like “Purple Hearts,” died February 18 in Georgia following a single-car accident. According to Hapeville Police Chief Bruce Hedley, Wheeler contacted his manager after the crash and was directed to a nearby Hilton parking lot. Despite the manager’s attempt to intervene, Wheeler remained in his vehicle and fatally shot himself.
The tragedy has left deep wounds, particularly for Toie Roberts, mother of his three-year-old son J’nar. In an emotional Instagram tribute, she addressed the incomprehensible loss: “Nothing could EVER describe the pain, the thoughts, the constant heartbreak of it all… You go on & get your rest. I hope you found the peace you’ve been looking for.”
Saturday’s service offers a space for collective grieving—and a final farewell to an artist whose potential was just beginning to unfold.
