Elijah William Torres

Elijah William Torres, aka Jah, 23, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on November 5, 2025, in his downtown Des Moines home. He was born on June 25, 2002, in Des Moines, where he spent his life surrounded by the family and friends he loved so deeply.

Elijah was a talented and dedicated barber at Universal Barbershop, proudly known professionally as JahChxppedIt. He poured his heart into his craft, working to build his clientele and make every person in his chair feel confident and cared for.

Elijah grew up playing Upward basketball and Beaverdale Little League baseball and was taught golf by his grandfather. He played golf for fun with friends and family. In middle school he discovered a new passion in track and field, ultimately earning an invitation to compete at the Drake Relays, an honor he carried with pride.

Elijah's love for expression extended into music as well. He collaborated, created, and shared tracks on SoundCloud, building a small but loyal audience that cherished his work.

Above all else, Elijah cherished his relationships. He had a tight, devoted circle of friends who became like family to one another. His kindness, warmth, and genuine care for others impacted many lives. Elijah's ability to make others feel loved, important, and seen is a legacy that will live on in the hearts of the many people who adored him.

Elijah is survived by his mother, Lesley Torres; his younger brother, Daniel C. Pollard; his stepfather, Terry Calvert; his grandmother, Karen Crooks; and his grandparents, Richard and Jean Torres. He is also survived by a close-knit group of friends who loved him as family.

Elijah's presence brought light, laughter, and love to everyone around him. His memory will be carried forward by all who were blessed to know him.