Launy Fredrick Rhem Jr., affectionately known as “Sonny,” was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 11, 1957, to the late Launy Fredrick Rhem Sr. and Marine “June” McCloud-Rhem. Sonny went home to our Lord and savior on April 22, 2024. Sonny passed away surrounded by the support of loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, warmth, unwavering support, and a fierce love for family.
After graduating from Hirsch High School, Sonny attended Kennedy-King college and later DePaul University where he went on to study Marketing Communications and graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. After graduating from DePaul University, he spent several years at XEROX Corporation and later started his company Urban Entertainment Marketing (UEM) in 1990. Sonny was a remarkable individual whose passion and expertise in media and branding left an indelible mark on the entertainment and marketing industries. 
Born with a charismatic spirit, a visionary mind, and the gift of “gab”, Sonny dedicated his career to mastering the art of marketing and brand extension. He was renowned for his ability to seamlessly integrate brands with Hollywood’s glittering world, serving as a crucial liaison between major brands and the entertainment industry. His efforts helped numerous companies enhance their market presence through strategic partnerships and high-profile endorsements.
Sonny’s career was driven by his belief in the power of relationships. He developed and nurtured connections with over 100 advertising agencies, magazines, and several major motion picture studios. His work with Urban Entertainment Marketing, was particularly impactful, focusing on promoting models and actresses not typically found in traditional agencies. These professionals often described him as a mentor who not only guided their careers with a keen eye for potential but also cared deeply about their personal growth and well-being.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sonny was a lover of life’s finer aspects—art, music, and culture. His contributions extended beyond his company and into the community, where he was a steadfast supporter of arts and youth programs. He had an immense love for his alma mater DePaul University and worked tirelessly to support the university and develop ways to enhance their basketball program and overall image. He believed in giving back, and his philanthropic efforts were aimed at empowering the next generation of creators and thinkers.
Sonny’s legacy is not just in the brands he helped build or the careers he fostered, but also in the hearts of those he touched with his infectious enthusiasm, genuine kindness and “tough love”. He is survived by his loving family, countless friends, and colleagues who will miss his vibrant personality and his unyielding support.
As we say goodbye to Sonny, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life that was filled with passion, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world. He will be remembered as a visionary leader, a caring mentor, and, most importantly, a beloved brother, uncle, and friend. Sonny’s spirit will forever inspire those who had the privilege to know him, and his impact will continue to be felt for many years to come. We love you Biggest Bro!!
I was blessed to grew up with Sonny and always admired his unorthodox personality. The transformation from childhood to manhood has been amazing to experience. I will always value he and his family to a high esteem. Missing my neighbor and friend.
I am sorry about your loss. I talked to Launny right before he went into the hospital and I went to visit him at the hospital he told me he was at but the workers said he wasn’t there. Launny was a good friend of mine for many decades and though he felt I hadn’t lived up toy friendship title with him I still loved Launny very much. I am glad he was able to accomplish his goals in his Outstanding career and many people admired his professionalism. He was a grrreeeat guy and I will never forget him. I will miss you very much Launny but I know you are with God now and he will keep you in his hands. Safe and warm like you deserve to be. Thank you for being my good friend and you made a huge impact in my life. I am sorry I never got to climb up to your height but I just couldn’t reach up that high. My prayers go out to your brothers who I know is devastated for their loss of such an amazing brother. I miss you already Launy. Thank You for being there for me. I am sorry it is now the end of our friendship.
Love Your Friend,
Sincerely,
Akilah d. Frazier
My prayers are with you always!
To the family. Launy
To my dear friend Julian ceo at
Marilyn Monroe foundation. And world marilyn Monroe perfumes
I am very happy we met and we have been growing together during covid in his Hollywood mansion the best to his family relax now
I just learned that Launy passed by reading this lovely tribute page and I am so sad to hear this news. I tried reaching Launy via LinkedIn and texting him directly to check on him during the LA wildfires. When I didn’t get a reply, I feared something was wrong. Please accept my delayed condolences. Keeping Launy and his family in my thoughts & prayers.
A very gifted man. Competitive and knowledgeable a true renaissance man. Blessed to call you my friend. My consciences to your family. May your legacy of creativity and passion for life continue.
I just ran across this notice. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I knew Launy from DePaul where I was in the Advertising Club he founded. Launy was a true innovator and a good person who I truly miss.
Thank you, Fred, I appreciate your kind words. I remember when he started the Advertising Club at DePaul. He was very passionate about the club and it meant a lot to him. God bless you and your family.
I just saw this after not hearing from him in a while. I’m so very sorry to hear.
It was quite a pleasure knowing and working with him over many years. He was quite an inspiration as well as a great person to talk to … which was rare.
He was quite an inspiration and a caring man…. Especially for his family which was a main topic over the years. He will surely, surely be missed.
Just…….what a great guy. May God be with him and his family.
Thank you, Harvey! I heard many stories about you over the years, and you held a special place with my brother. I also missed talking with him, although I hear his voice in my head often :-) Take care and may God bless you and your family.
I knew Launy at DePaul, mostly from hanging out in the 4th Floor cafeteria between classes. Though we were both in the College of Commerce, our classes did not overlap due to different majors. A “Big Guy” both in physical stature and personality, he had room-filling presence and an enthusiasm that screamed “marketer”. He always wore his trademark Boston Bruins varsity style jacket when he breezed through the floor and was engaging with everyone he came across. I am saddened to find that Launy has gone to Glory and pray continued healing and comfort on his family, friends and colleagues. Numbers 6:24-26 to all.
Darrell, thank you so much for your kind words. I miss my brother more than anyone could imagine! God bless!!
I was thinking of Launy today as I got a birthday reminder from facebook. I thought I send him a message and catch up. I noticed something was wrong and I found this site.
I met Launy in the MERCEDES mentorship program and became good friends after that. life took us different paths countries and cities, but we kept in touch, but not enough.
So sad to learn of his journey but very happy to have crossed roads.