Losing his mother to cancer was the hardest experience of Tony’s life and deeply affected him. He is incredibly grateful for the support and love of his brother’s on the row during that time, as well as his caring attorney Richard Burr. Joyce will always be remembered with love and honor - a truly strong and remarkable woman.

‘Auntie Valerie is truly one of the strongest women I know. She lost her nephew Chris Young to an execution in Texas and has since been an incredible support for many men on Texas death row. She shares a very close bond with Tony, giving him strength and love. I felt that same strong love and wisdom when I met her during my first visit in Livingston, Texas after meeting Tony for the first time. I am so grateful that she is part of Tony’s life. Thank you for everything you do, Auntie.’

- Luna

A wrongful conviction does not punish one person alone, it punishes entire families. It means brothers and sisters living with visiting through glass, writing letters, not being able to experience the most important and precious moments together.

Tony and Auntie Valerie share an extraordinary bond built on love, strength, and unwavering support. She has been a guiding light for him through the hardest times, offering strength, care, and encouragement that words can hardly capture. Seeing them together reminds how powerful connection and love can be, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.