By Kevin Aldridge
The Cincinnati Enquirer

AVONDALE - Christmas is supposed to be one of the happiest times of the year for families. But for Valerie Holley and her 11-year-old son, Tyriq, happiness is the farthest thing from their minds.

The holidays took a turn for the worst for the Holleys two weeks ago when 41-year-old Nathaniel Jones died after a struggle with six Cincinnati police officers at a North Avondale restaurant.

Jones had lived with Holley in Cleveland for two years before coming to Cincinnati and was Tyriq's father.

Holley, 39, said her family's grief is compounded by the fact that Jones traditionally provided all of the Christmas gifts for Tyriq and her two other children who weren't his biologically.

The Cincinnati Herald is holding a Christmas gift drive through Friday at its offices on Hearne Avenue (across from the Ronald McDonald House) in Avondale to help the family. Organizers are asking for donations of clothing, toys and other gifts appropriate for preteen and teenage children.

"A lot of us understand how it is to lose a loved one around the holidays," said Tiana Rollinson, managing editor of the Herald. "We just want to help out the family."

Donations from the drive would also benefit Jones' other son, Nate Jr., 15, who has a different mother.

Holley said any contributions would be greatly appreciated, especially since Tyriq will also be celebrating his 12th birthday Thursday.

Holley said she's tried to assure her son that no matter what she would try to get him some gifts between now and January.

"But kids don't want to hear that," she said. "They want something to open up on Christmas Day."

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E-mail kaldridge@enquirer.com