RJ Fox ’25 would have shaken the century-old foundation of St. Joseph’s Chapel with the applause for his Senior Speech, the decibel levels a result of his charisma and popularity.
He talked about the speech often in the lead-up to his senior year. As well as what it would be like to have his very own customized, green blazer.
RJ’s parents, Bert and Sarah P’25, helped give their oldest son both these Christ School traditions at Friday afternoon’s Memorial Celebration that included a formal presentation of RJ’s green jacket from Head of School Dr. Sean Jenkins.
Sarah spoke on behalf of the family.
“Christ School Brothers: Go forward, take RJ with you for all your milestones. Just like you’ve been wearing your 12 pins on your green jackets all year, carry him with you,” Sarah said.
“Celebrate your accomplishments with his joy and feel his encouragement in your setbacks. Even in disappointment, know that a better opportunity may just be right around the corner. He’s right there on your shoulder, ready to chest bump, shout out ‘Let’s Go!’ or simply wrap his arm around you when need it most. Embrace your Greenie brotherhood and lean into this community.”
RJ passed away last April as truly the best version of himself, Sarah said. In fact, his curiosity, kindness, and spark were at their peak when he returned to the family’s home in Wilmette, Illinois for the very first time as a Greenie.
“He hopped off the plane, gave his dad a big hug, and said ‘Thank you for sending me to Christ School.' To me, that moment said it all,” Sarah recalled.
Sarah thanked not only RJ’s classmates, but Christ School parents for their support the past 11 months.
Following the service in chapel, everyone stood together in Yard B for a tree-planting ceremony. A plaque at the base of the tree reads:
In loving memory of
Robert James “RJ” Fox ’25
Forever a Greenie
A faithful brother through and through, whom we will keep alive in memory as we journey on our way.