Devonte William Gantt
Sunrise 2/23/92 Sunset 1/4/15
On January 4, 2015, DeVonte William Gantt, tragically lost his life to a senseless act of gun violence. DeVonte was a 2012 graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. DeVonte dreamed of becoming a sports therapist.
In the media
Below are stories and publications that further explore DeVonte’s life, his enduring legacy, and the profound impact he continues to have on families and future generations.
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Reflections on the Loss of My Grandson: How Life Events Change Social Work Practice
In this piece, grandmother Dr. Ann Gantt describes support from colleagues and clients as she makes meaning through her loss.
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A Grandmother on the Loss of Her Black Grandson
A Personal Perspective: A story of violence that affects two Black families.
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A moment of gun violence can mark a life
Dr. Ann Gantt reflects on her grandson DeVonte’s life, legacy, and lost potential after he was killed in a 2015 drug deal, urging people to see him as more than the circumstances of his death.
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Remember My Story
For many years, large quilts hung in the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office, adorned with patches commemorating those killed in homicides. Families submitted patches to be sewn on the quilts, forever honoring their lost loved ones. This virtual map is a re-creation of the quilts.
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More than 200 gather to mourn DeVonte Gantt; pray for peace
More than 200 people gathered at Living Hope Community Church to mourn 22-year-old DeVonte Gantt. Pastors and family urged forgiveness and an end to retaliation. Loved ones remembered him as joyful and full of promise, hoping his death would not spark more violence.
in loving leadership
Dr. Ann Gantt is the maternal grandmother whose love and strength helped shape the heart of this scholarship. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has devoted her career to supporting individuals and families through trauma and crisis. Her professional expertise, paired with her personal commitment, continues to guide our mission to honor this legacy with compassion and action. Dr. Gantt remains deeply committed to advocating for and supporting victims/survivors, and is available for speaking engagements to further this important work.
Be All
By Ann Gantt
I have been a social worker for many years,
But just like any other human I have shed many tears.
I’ve experienced difficult life events you see,
One was a heart-wrenching tragedy.
But now I’m on a mission to try to help others,
My heart especially goes out to grieving mothers.
Being here today has inspired me,
To continue to help others and be all I can be.