Des The Best

Des The Best

Written By Mario Redding

Destinee Redding, or as I affectionately call her, “Des the Best,” embodies the true meaning of loyalty.

In my book Rich Negus in the Hood, I define loyalty as follows:

“The origin of the word signifies that loyalty is law. Once allegiance is sworn—to a person, a cause, a mission, a team, a neighborhood, a corporation, a family, or anything else—that loyalty becomes binding. Loyalty is a commitment. Loyalty is an obligation. Laws aren’t meant to be broken. Likewise, loyalty shouldn’t be broken. Because loyalty holds such weight, it’s even more important to be careful about who or what you pledge it to. Be wise with your loyalty—it’s precious. Knowing it cannot be broken, be serious and cautious with where you place it.”

Destinee is a living example of this definition. Throughout my entire prison sentence, she never missed a visit—no matter the penitentiary, she always showed up. Her loyalty wasn’t just about her presence; it was about her unwavering support. During her father’s most vulnerable years, she stayed by his side, caring for him with deep devotion.

Known as “Jessie” (a nickname given to her by her grandmother, Julia Witt, because of her fondness for carrying guns like Jessie James), Destinee demonstrated her loyalty to her grandmother as well. Whether it was taking her to get her nails done or ensuring she accompanied her to the latest movie premieres, Des always made time for her family. Her loyalty extends to standing by her mother, supporting her sister, and caring for her niece, never wavering even in difficult times.

Loyalty is best demonstrated when one is in a stronger position. Des, however, remains loyal in both good times and bad, staying consistent, loving, and reliable. That’s why I call her “Des the Best”—she is the epitome of loyalty in action.

At We The Negus, we understand that loyalty to our loved ones is crucial. It binds us together and strengthens us as a community.n