Jesus Eduardo Magaña, lovingly known as Lalo and Shorty, passed away. He was born April 28, 1992, a proud South Side Chicagoan whose life was rooted in family, community, and culture.
He was the beloved son of Gilda Carrera and Jesus Magaña and brother to Christopher (Itzel), Jesselyn, Jessica, and Grecia. His love for family extended deeply to his nieces, Alina, Mia, Madelyn, Maya, Ariana, and Jerina. Of all the titles he held, uncle and godfather were among his proudest, and he loved his nieces fiercely and wholeheartedly.
Jesus attended Whittier Elementary School, Orozco Middle School, and Benito Juarez High School before becoming the first generation in his family to attend college. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Illinois State University, where his time with Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Inc., helped shape his leadership and gave him a brotherhood and friendships that became family.
His career centered on community, connection, and public service, including work at Illinois State University, in political campaigns, and in community outreach.
Jesus was known for his unforgettable sense of humor and his gift for storytelling. He could turn an ordinary moment into a story that had everyone laughing, and his voice, expressions, and timing made every story uniquely his own.
To some he was Jesus, to many he was Lalo or Shorty. His legacy will live in the family he loved, the friendships he built, the laughter he created, and the stories that will continue to be told in his name.
Visitation: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, 4 to 8 p.m. at Foran Funeral Home, 7300 W. Archer Ave. (55th Street just west of Harlem).
Mass: Wednesday at 10 a.m. at St. Gall Church. Family and friends are welcome to gather.
For more information, contact Foran Funeral Home.