Dasani Unique (“Sani”) Cleveland

Dasani Unique Cleveland was born on October 31, 2001 and passed on April 17, 2025. She is survived by her mother, Quonshanna Aldridge (Detroit, MI) and father, Anthony Cleveland (Chicago, IL).

Dasani "Sani" Cleveland lived a full life. Though her time with us was too short, it was rich with meaning, laughter, love, and impact.  She was here for a good time, not a long time—and a good time was had. Her energy was infectious, her laughter unforgettable, and her spirit impossible to ignore.

She touched everyone she came in contact with – from childhood friends and classmates to coworkers and community members.  Sani was bold, brilliant, and deeply thoughtful. Whether she was joking with you, challenging your thinking, or holding space for your feelings, she made you feel seen.  She had the rare gift of connection and knew how to use it.

Dasani leaves to cherish her good memories to her maternal great grandmother: Bertha Peterson; maternal grandparents: Regina Aldridge and Russell Lipsey; paternal grandparents: Paula Hall-Cleveland and Anthony Cleveland Sr.; sisters: Dejania (Malcolm) Martin and Aubree Cleveland; niece: Dejanai Martin; aunts: Ebony (William) Hurt, Toni (Chris) Thomas, and Shantell Cleveland; uncles: Brentae (Paquita) Aldridge, Laymon (Tiffany) Fly, and Reginald Fly; boyfriend: Jernard Freeman, and a host of family and friends who adored her. Her presence was powerful. Her absence is deeply felt.

In 2020, Dasani graduated from Michigan City High School where she excelled in academics and volleyball.  After high school, Dasani attended Indiana University in Bloomington, IN where she participated in programs at the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center and was an active member of the academic honor society, Chi Alpha Epsilon.  In 2024, Dasani graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice.  Dasani was accepted into the Indiana University McKinney School of Law for the fall 2025 cohort.  Dasani was such an intelligent young woman.  She was bold, beautiful, and brave.

Though Sani often questioned the purpose of this world, those who knew her never questioned the purpose of her.  Her life mattered.  Her love mattered.  Her story mattered.

We will carry her with us every day, in every memory, in every laugh, and in every moment we choose joy, connection, or courage.  



 

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