45°
Thomas Martins, who had Down syndrome, died of the virus on April 6. His mom, Carolyn Martins-Reitz -- a graphic designer for the Archdiocese of Newark -- passed away March 28 at Clara Maas Medical Center.
Surviving them are Reitz' husband and Martins step-dad Rudy Reitz, who mourns alone with his daughter -- Martins' half-sister -- Sharon Reitz.
Carolyn and Thomas, born in Belleville, were "each other's whole word," Rudy told BuzzFeed News. The doting mom made sure her son was "healthy, loved, and stayed active."
A GoFundMe for Rudy and Sharon had raised more than $25,000 as of April 14.
Thomas reportedly reminded his family of his upcoming birthday for months before the virus. They assured him there would be a celebration. Even while he was in the hospital, Rudy said, Thomas wanted to celebrate his 30th.
And he did, thanks to officials at the Felician School, where Thomas was a member of the over-21 program.
Thomas received a birthday cake, several pizzas and was able to join a video chat where all of his friends sang "Happy Birthday," BuzzFeed reports.
Click here for the full BuzzFeed story.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Franklin Township and receive free news updates.
