Ray Lewis Issues Powerful Statement After Passing Of Jacoby Jones

Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis shared a heartfelt message on social media Sunday following news that his former teammate, wide receiver Jacoby Jones, had died.

Per ESPN's Jamison Hensley , his cause of death "was not immediately available."

"My brother, you will truly be missed," began Lewis' powerful statement.

"They can't take the memories and hard work you put in on and off the football field. You always gave back and always a pillar in the community, a @Ravens for life. Love ya JJ," Lewis continued.

Jones, who was born in  New Orleans, Louisiana, founded the Jacoby Jones Foundation. He was most recently a wide receivers coach at Alabama State, and the site shared his foundation's mission : "to transform communities and impact lives by creating resources that empower underprivileged youth academically, encourage positive character development and emphasize healthy lifestyle choices."

Jones and Lewis were teammates on the Ravens during the team's 2012 Super Bowl season, with Jones being named First-Team All-Pro as a return specialist. He scored three touchdowns on kickoffs (including playoffs) and once on a punt return that season.

His 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLVII is the longest play in Super Bowl history.

He was also on the receiving end of the "Mile High Miracle" in the divisional round of the same postseason.

Jones retired from the NFL following the 2015 season at 31. He celebrated his 40th birthday on Thursday, July 11.