Sisters, child laid to rest after Chicago arson attack

CHICAGO (WGN) – Sisters Gina and Destiny Henry, known for their unshakeable bond, love for family, style and determination were laid to rest Saturday.

The homecoming service also celebrated the life of Gina’s son, 5-year-old Jayceon.

The close-knit family died during an arson attack on the West Side in June.

“I mean, they had fun. They enjoyed life. They were great moms and we have to remember them in a positive light,” Rev. George Smith Jr., a cousin of the sisters, said.

On Saturday morning, family and friends helped console each other at New Zion Missionary Baptist Church where they said their final farewells to Gina, Destiny and Jayceon.

“Destiny had a light in her. Well, both of them did. They had a light in them that was so bright,” Smith said. “Jayceon, like I said before, he had swag and he was just a cool little guy.”

Loved ones described Gina, 32, and Destiny, 28, as sister by birth, but best friends by choice who were inseparable.

During the early hours of June 26, the sisters and Jayceon were killed when a fire, that prosecutors said was set intentionally, engulfed the Austin apartment they shared.

Another resident, identified as 76-year-old Brad Cummings, also died.

“I just thank God for the time we had with them. They were beautiful people,” Smith said.

According to prosecutors, 23-year-old Lontray Clark allegedly set the fire after he got upset over seeing a picture on Snapchat of a woman he previously dated and a friend of his who lived in the same building as the Henrys.

Clark faces multiple arson and murder charges and, according to court records, pled not guilty during his arraignment on Aug. 18.

The fire also left several residents injured, including Gina and Destiny’s mother who lived with them.

“Now it’s time for us to throw our arms around her and we’re just here for her,” Smith said.

Destiny’s son Kyle is now home from the hospital after being critically injured in the fire.

Bound together by love, Gina, Destiny and Jayceon leave behind a world of memories for their loved ones.

“I miss my cousins. They were beautiful people,” Smith said.