The music world was shocked and saddened by the sudden death of Joseph “Jo Mersa” Marley, the grandson of reggae legend Bob Marley and the son of Stephen Marley, on December 26, 2022. The 31-year-old musician was found unresponsive in his car in a store parking lot in Florida and pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of his death was not disclosed at the time, leaving many fans and admirers wondering what happened to the talented artist.
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Acute Asthma Exacerbation Due to Viral Illness
After more than six months of investigation, the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office has finally confirmed the cause of Jo Mersa’s death. According to the documents obtained by E! News, Jo Mersa died of “acute asthma exacerbation” due to a viral infection. The report stated that Jo Mersa had a history of asthma, bronchitis and pneumonia, and was not taking his asthma medication at the time of his death. He also had a history of smoking tobacco and marijuana, which could have worsened his condition.
The report also revealed that Jo Mersa had visited a hospital in March 2022 for a chest abscess, and that he had told his mother on Christmas Day that he was feeling ill, “ostensibly due to his asthma”. The next day, he was found unresponsive in his car by a passerby who called 911. The first responders attempted CPR, but were unable to revive him.
A Huge Loss to the Music Industry
Jo Mersa was a rising star in the music industry, following the footsteps of his famous grandfather and father. He grew up in Jamaica before moving to Miami, where he studied studio engineering at Miami Dade College. He released his debut EP Comfortable in 2014, featuring six songs and collaborations with reggae artists Wayne Marshall and Jemere Morgan. His second album Eternal came out in 2021, with guest appearances from Busy Signal and Melii. He also worked with his father Stephen on several projects, and appeared on the Grammy-winning album Strictly Roots by Morgan Heritage.
Jo Mersa’s death was mourned by many fans and celebrities from around the world. Jamaican rapper Shaggy posted a tribute on Instagram, saying: “So saddened by the news of the passing of this young king @jomersamarley sending prayers and condolences to the Marley family”. Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness also expressed his condolences on Twitter, calling Jo Mersa’s death “a huge loss to the music as we look to the next generation”.
A Legacy of Love and Music
Jo Mersa is survived by his wife Shacia Payne Marley, whom he married in 2019, and their two children: daughter Indigo Marley and son Jo Mersa Marley Jr. He also leaves behind his parents Stephen and Kertia Marley, his siblings Yohan, Damian, Julian, Ky-Mani, Rohan and Cedella Marley, and many other relatives and friends.
Jo Mersa’s family issued a statement after his death, thanking everyone for their support and asking for privacy during this difficult time. They also said that Jo Mersa “lived for music” and that he “was a devoted father whose children were his everything”.
Jo Mersa’s music will live on as a testament to his talent and passion. He will be remembered as a loving son, husband, father, brother, cousin, friend and artist who touched many lives with his music and spirit. Rest in peace, Jo Mersa Marley.
