TALLAHASSEE — The Florida A&M University community is reeling after the sudden death of Mardochee Simon, a beloved undergraduate student whose warmth and drive made him a light in the lives of classmates, professors, and friends. The 21-year-old psychology major from Fort Myers passed away recently, leaving behind a grieving family and a campus shaken by the loss of one of its most promising young minds.
Friends and classmates first raised the alarm on social media, sharing heartfelt posts about Simon’s passing and celebrating the impact he had on those around him. Described as thoughtful, compassionate, and endlessly encouraging, Simon was more than just a student — he was a connector, someone who listened, supported, and uplifted others without hesitation.
At Florida A&M University, known affectionately as the “Highest of Seven Hills,” Simon was deeply engaged in both academic pursuits and campus life. While he pursued his studies with vigor, his presence was equally felt in social and community spaces, where his laughter and sincerity left a lasting impression. The university’s social feeds have been filled with memories of Simon’s warm smile and the genuine care he showed his peers.
Those close to him paint a picture of a young man who was larger than life in spirit if not in years. His family remembers him as a devoted son and loyal brother — someone who valued connection above all else. Posts shared by relatives reflect a profound personal loss, mixed with gratitude for the moments and memories he created with loved ones.
Outside of classes and campus events, Simon cared deeply about community and the people in it. Many who knew him talk about his ability to make anyone feel seen and heard, a rare quality that drew friends to him and made every space he entered a little brighter. His legacy, according to those closest to him, goes far beyond grades and campus involvement — it lives on in the ways he made others feel valued.
As the news spread throughout FAMU and beyond, students and faculty alike shared their sorrow and support. Tributes spoke not just to Simon’s academic promise, but also to his character — a young man eager to grow, to help, and to connect. For many on campus, his passing is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be, and how deeply one person’s kindness can resonate.
In the days ahead, family and close friends are expected to gather to celebrate Simon’s life in a memorial that honors his spirit and the deep imprint he left on his community. Though the details of that service are still being finalized, those who knew him say his memory will be cherished — not just for the bright promise he carried, but for the way he made others feel during his time among them.
