Scirocco Whyten was a treasured presence at Jackson-Reed, touching the hearts of all who knew him. As an educational aide and friend, his warmth and compassion left students and staff fulfilled and supported by his unwavering dedication to their learning. Cherished by many, Whyten passed away last month at age 48.
A DC native, Whyten graduated from Ballou High School and attended the University of the District of Columbia. He later studied briefly at Grand Canyon University. Whyten is survived by his wife, Lakisa Flood-Whyten, two stepchildren, and granddaughter Tea’Gyn.
The Department of Exceptional Learners (DEL) valued Whyten’s presence for the last five years, during which he supported students and staff wherever needed. “He substituted many times, filling in for teachers in their absences. He was very good at teaching and following the teachers’ directions that he filled in for,” educational aide Clara Owens said.
“He was always here on time and took part in all activities,” Maureen Thompson, a close friend and colleague, said. “He never missed a day and helped with SAT testing whenever he could.”
DEL teacher Allen Brown added that Whyten “even tried to assist with hallway movement, and truly helped out wherever he was needed. He really connected with the students and modified instruction to suit their individual needs. Students were very receptive to him.”
“He has always been a kind, friendly man. Respectful to kids and adults.” Thompson said. Not only was he quick to accommodate others and support the department by any means, but Whyten was loved by all. He always made people smile and encouraged students by ensuring classwork was always achievable. Whyten played a pivotal role in the lives of his students, instructing them with grace, applying patience to his interactions, and respecting them deeply.
“He showed himself to be a very friendly person and made me feel at home here at Jackson-Reed. I appreciated this, as well needed this, at that time,” Owens, who joined JR in 2022, said. “Whyten interacted great with staff and students alike. He was definitely a people person.”
Outside of the building, Whyten enjoyed football and rooting for his favorite team, the San Francisco 49ers. He can also be recognized for his lovable social media accounts, where he crafted videos to R&B soul music, celebrating artists like Luther Vandross and Johnny Gill. Whyten saw social media as a platform to spread his faith, and he often made videos featuring his relationship with his religion.
Whyten frequented a handful of local churches in and around DC, as a member of the Temple of Praise and a regular visitor to Bethel Restoration Center Ministries. At Bethel, Whyten met Lakisa Flood, a fellow parishioner with whom he formed an immediate connection. The two celebrated a 21-year-long friendship, bonding over faith and fun before marrying this April.
Flood-Whyten remarked that beneath his dedicated exterior, Whyten was a bundle of bright joy even in the simplest moments. “He was spontaneous, known to take random car rides just to grab an ice cream,” she said.
Whyten’s adventurous nature and kind attitude serve as constant reminders to find happiness in the little things. “He was always ready to make you laugh, bringing light to any bad day, and that joy was contagious to everyone who knew him,” Flood-Whyten said.
The Temple of Praise will host a celebratory service dedicated to Whyten’s life on October 21 at 11 a.m. Those who attend are advised to wear honorary shades of purple.
Whyten’s presence will be deeply missed, but his memory lives on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him. His lively spirit, kind character, charm, and unwavering willingness to help will forever be remembered by the Jackson-Reed community.
“Whyten impacted the Jackson-Reed school environment by just being here,” Owens said. “He was a good guy. He will definitely be missed.”
