Author: Admin

Anderson County Mourns the Loss of Retired Trooper Charles Coggins

ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. — The Anderson County community is grappling with profound grief following the tragic loss of Charles Coggins, 58, a retired South Carolina State Trooper whose life was heartbreakingly cut short in a devastating crash Friday afternoon. Family, friends, and colleagues are mourning a man whose dedication, service, and character left an indelible mark on the community he served for so many years.

A Life of Service

Charles Coggins dedicated much of his life to protecting and serving the citizens of South Carolina. As a South Carolina State Trooper, he exemplified courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and the community alike. Even in retirement, those who knew him say he remained a steadfast presence, always ready to offer guidance, mentorship, or support to fellow officers and neighbors.

Coggins’ career in law enforcement was marked not only by professionalism but also by compassion. He understood the importance of service beyond the badge, engaging with the community in meaningful ways and building relationships grounded in trust and respect. His dedication to public safety and to the people around him set a standard that many admired and sought to emulate.

The Tragic Incident

On Friday afternoon, tragedy struck when Charles Coggins was involved in a serious crash that would claim his life. Emergency responders arrived at the scene promptly, but despite their efforts, Coggins was pronounced deceased. Details of the crash are still under investigation, as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding this devastating loss.

The suddenness of his passing has left family, friends, and the broader Anderson County community in shock. A life characterized by service, dedication, and integrity was taken far too soon, leaving an empty space in the hearts of all who knew him.

Remembering Charles Coggins

Family and friends describe Charles as a man of warmth, humility, and generosity. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a loving family member, a loyal friend, and a mentor to many. His ability to connect with people, offer guidance, and bring reassurance in difficult times made him a cherished presence in the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.

Colleagues remember him as a trusted partner on and off the job—someone who approached every challenge with calm determination and treated everyone with respect. His dedication to duty and to his community created a legacy that will not be forgotten.

Community in Mourning

The Anderson County community has come together to support the family and honor the memory of Charles Coggins. Tributes and messages of sympathy have poured in from residents, former colleagues, and law enforcement officials, reflecting the profound impact he had on the lives of so many.

As the community grieves, memorial services and gatherings are expected to provide an opportunity to celebrate Coggins’ life, reflect on his accomplishments, and share the stories that kept his spirit alive in the hearts of friends and loved ones.

A Lasting Legacy

Though his life was tragically cut short, Charles Coggins leaves behind a legacy defined by service, courage, and integrity. His contributions to law enforcement and his commitment to community safety will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

Family, friends, and the Anderson County community are holding tight to the memories of his kindness, mentorship, and unwavering dedication. His life serves as a reminder of the profound difference one person can make in the lives of many, and his memory will endure in the hearts of those who loved and respected him.

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Rest in peace, Charles Coggins.
Your dedication to service, your strength of character, and the compassion you shared with others will never be forgotten.

Pembroke Pines Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Demi Marie Iglesias

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. — The Pembroke Pines community is grappling with profound grief following the untimely passing of Demi Marie Iglesias, who died on November 13, 2025, at the young age of 26. Her passing has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken, mourning the loss of a vibrant life that touched so many in meaningful ways.

Remembering Demi Marie Iglesias

Demi was known to those around her for her warmth, kindness, and infectious spirit. She brought light and joy to everyone she encountered, leaving a lasting impression through her compassion, generosity, and the genuine care she showed for her friends, family, and community.

Friends and loved ones describe Demi as someone who radiated positivity even in challenging times, always ready to lift others’ spirits with her laughter, encouragement, or a simple act of kindness. Her dedication to her loved ones and her ability to make those around her feel valued and supported created a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.

The Impact of Her Loss

Demi’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of her family and friends. At just 26, she had a future full of promise, aspirations, and dreams that were tragically cut short. The grief felt by those who knew her is compounded by the suddenness of her loss, as the community comes to terms with the reality of her absence.

Local leaders, neighbors, and peers are uniting in their sorrow, offering support to the family, and remembering the many ways Demi enriched their lives. Social media tributes, personal stories, and acts of remembrance have been shared by friends and community members as a way to honor her life and legacy.

A Life to Celebrate

Though her life was brief, Demi Marie Iglesias leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and connection. Her generosity, her willingness to help others, and her ability to create joy in the lives of those around her are qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Her family remembers her not only for her bright smile and kind heart but also for her resilience, her passion for life, and the deep love she had for her community. Friends and loved ones are encouraged to carry forward her spirit by cherishing one another and continuing the bonds of kindness that Demi exemplified.

Community in Mourning

As Pembroke Pines mourns this tragic loss, residents are coming together to support one another, remembering Demi’s life and honoring her memory. Vigils, memorial gatherings, and other tributes are expected as friends, neighbors, and family unite to reflect on the profound impact she had in her 26 years.

While the grief is immense, the celebration of Demi’s life provides solace. Her spirit, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on through the stories shared, the memories cherished, and the love she instilled in those who were fortunate enough to know her.

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Rest in peace, Demi Marie Iglesias.
Your life, though tragically short, left an indelible mark on those around you. Your memory, love, and the light you shared will never be forgotten.

Montgomery Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of 19-Year-Old Kashabe Perkins Jr.

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Montgomery community is reeling from the shocking and tragic death of Kashabe Perkins Jr., a 19-year-old whose life was abruptly cut short in a shooting early Friday morning on the 4600 block of Mobile Highway. Friends, family, and neighbors are left grappling with profound grief, mourning a young life full of promise and potential.

The Incident

Authorities report that the shooting occurred in the early hours of Friday on Mobile Highway, a bustling area that has now been marked by tragedy. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but despite their efforts, Kashabe was pronounced deceased. Local law enforcement has opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.

At this time, details regarding potential suspects or motives remain limited, and officials continue to gather evidence. The investigation aims to bring clarity, accountability, and justice for Kashabe and his family.

Remembering Kashabe Perkins Jr.

Kashabe was more than a statistic — he was a young man known for his spirit, determination, and the relationships he nurtured with friends and family. Those who knew him describe a compassionate and lively individual, whose energy and presence left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Family and friends recall his aspirations, dreams, and the simple ways he brought joy and laughter into their lives. His passing leaves not only a void in the hearts of those closest to him but also a ripple of sorrow throughout the wider Montgomery community.

The Community’s Grief

The loss of Kashabe Perkins Jr. has reverberated across Montgomery, a stark reminder of the ongoing impact of gun violence on families and neighborhoods. Community members have expressed deep sorrow and have rallied together in support of the grieving family, holding vigils, offering condolences, and sharing memories of Kashabe’s life.

Leaders and local organizations are emphasizing the importance of coming together in the face of tragedy, supporting young people, and fostering environments where violence does not overshadow potential.

A Call for Remembrance and Action

While the pain of losing Kashabe is immeasurable, the Montgomery community is finding ways to honor his memory. Friends and family are encouraging others to cherish their loved ones, to support one another, and to work toward building safer spaces for youth in the city.

Kashabe’s legacy lies in the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the hope that his story will inspire positive change and vigilance within the community. Memorials and tributes are being planned to celebrate his life, ensuring that his spirit and memory endure beyond this tragic loss.

Moving Forward

The Montgomery community continues to grieve alongside the family of Kashabe Perkins Jr., holding onto the hope that through unity, support, and remembrance, healing can begin. Authorities remain committed to investigating the circumstances of the shooting to bring clarity and justice, while the community channels its sorrow into solidarity and compassion.

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Rest in peace, Kashabe Perkins Jr.
Though your life was tragically cut short, your memory and the love you brought to those around you will never be forgotten.

Community in Shock Following Discovery of Missing Liverpool Woman

NEDROW, N.Y. — The Onondaga County community is mourning the tragic loss of Jacqueline Chiodo, 43, a Liverpool resident who was reported missing earlier this week and whose body was discovered in Onondaga Creek on Friday.

Deputies with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Ms. Chiodo was found around noon near Dorwin Avenue in Nedrow. Thomas Newton, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, stated that at this time, foul play is not suspected. The official cause of death will be determined following an autopsy.

A Community Left Reeling

Friends, family, and neighbors have expressed deep shock and sorrow at the news of Jacqueline Chiodo’s passing. Known to those who knew her as a caring, vibrant, and beloved member of the Liverpool community, her sudden disappearance and tragic death have left a profound void in the lives of many.

Family members are now grappling with the heartbreaking reality of losing someone so unexpectedly. Their grief has been compounded by the uncertainty surrounding the circumstances leading to her death, awaiting official confirmation from the medical examiner.

Law Enforcement Response

The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office responded quickly to the report of Ms. Chiodo’s disappearance earlier in the week. Authorities conducted searches in the surrounding areas and coordinated efforts with local emergency services to locate her. The discovery of her body in Onondaga Creek marks a tragic conclusion to a search that had engaged the community and law enforcement alike.

Spokesperson Thomas Newton emphasized that, based on initial assessments, there is no evidence of foul play. The autopsy will provide a clearer understanding of the events that led to her untimely death.

Remembering Jacqueline Chiodo

Jacqueline Chiodo will be remembered by friends and family for her warmth, kindness, and the positive impact she had on those around her. Neighbors describe her as a person who brought light into the lives of those who knew her, someone who was approachable, compassionate, and generous with her time.

In a time of sorrow, the Liverpool and Nedrow communities are coming together to support one another, sharing memories, offering condolences, and finding strength in unity.

Moving Forward

While the circumstances surrounding Jacqueline’s death are still being clarified, her passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of tragedy. Friends and neighbors continue to hold her family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult period.

Authorities have asked anyone with additional information or who may have seen anything relevant prior to her disappearance to contact the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office.

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Rest in peace, Jacqueline Chiodo.
Though her life was tragically cut short, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Presque Isle Community Mourns After Tragic Carbon Monoxide Deaths

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine (WAGM) — The Presque Isle community is reeling after the tragic deaths of Brian Merchant, 64, and Laurie Ridgway, 56, who were discovered deceased inside their North Wade Road home on Tuesday morning, November 18. Authorities say the deaths are likely linked to carbon monoxide exposure caused by a malfunctioning furnace system, marking a devastating reminder of the silent dangers that can exist in any household.

Discovery of the Victims

Maine State Police and Emergency Medical Services responded to a call at 505 N. Wade Road around 11:15 a.m. following a welfare check request. First responders confirmed that both occupants of the home were deceased upon arrival. The scene prompted a full investigation, with personnel from the Office of State Fire Marshal called to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Investigation Findings

Investigators determined that the furnace exhaust pipe inside the home had been improperly installed and had become disconnected. This malfunction allowed toxic exhaust fumes to vent directly into the living space, creating a hazardous environment. Officials indicated that initial evidence points to carbon monoxide poisoning as the likely cause of death, though the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta will conduct formal examinations to confirm the official cause.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas, often referred to as the “silent killer,” which can be fatal when inhaled in sufficient quantities. This tragic incident highlights the hidden risks that faulty home heating systems can pose if not properly installed or maintained.

Remembering Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway

Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway were beloved members of their community, known for their kindness, warmth, and the connections they shared with friends, family, and neighbors. Their sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew them, and the Presque Isle community is coming together to mourn their loss.

Friends and neighbors remember Brian and Laurie for their generosity, friendship, and welcoming spirits. Both were cherished for the positive impact they had on the people around them, and their absence is being felt profoundly throughout the community.

Community Response and Safety Reminder

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is urging all Maine residents to take preventative measures to avoid similar tragedies:

• Ensure carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are installed and functioning properly throughout the home.

• Regularly inspect home heating systems and have furnaces serviced by qualified professionals.

• Be aware of symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath, and evacuate immediately if exposure is suspected.

These steps are critical in safeguarding homes against the invisible but deadly threat of carbon monoxide.

A Community in Mourning

As Presque Isle grapples with the sudden loss of Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway, neighbors and local leaders have expressed condolences and offered support to family and friends. Memorials and gatherings are expected to honor their lives, providing the community with an opportunity to remember their contributions, celebrate their spirit, and find comfort in shared grief.

While the loss is profound, the tragic circumstances serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety precautions and awareness in every home. The memory of Brian and Laurie will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them, a testament to their lives, their kindness, and the deep connections they fostered within the Presque Isle community.

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Rest in peace, Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway.
Your lives touched many, and your memory will continue to inspire and remind us of the importance of vigilance, care, and community.

Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway

The community is reeling with grief following the heartbreaking loss of Brian Merchant, 64, and Laurie Ridgway, 56, two cherished members whose lives were tragically cut short on November 18. Their passing has left a profound void in the hearts of family, friends, and neighbors, who are coming together to remember their lives and honor their lasting impact.

Remembering Brian Merchant

Brian Merchant was widely admired for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those around him. Friends and family remember him as someone who was always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or offer support in times of need. His calm presence and warm spirit touched the lives of many, leaving behind countless memories of compassion and friendship.

Throughout his life, Brian’s commitment to family and community was evident. He was a devoted family man and a trusted friend, known for the way he could bring people together, offer guidance, and brighten the lives of those around him.

Remembering Laurie Ridgway

Laurie Ridgway was celebrated for her vibrant personality, gentle spirit, and the joy she brought to every interaction. Those who knew her speak fondly of her generosity, her sense of humor, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. Laurie’s life was one of service, care, and authentic connection, leaving an enduring mark on the hearts of her loved ones.

Her family recalls her as a source of strength and warmth, someone whose love for her friends and family was unwavering. Laurie’s presence in the community was both impactful and inspiring, and her absence is profoundly felt.

The Community’s Grief

The sudden loss of Brian and Laurie has sent ripples of sorrow through the community. Neighbors, friends, and colleagues are sharing memories, offering support to one another, and reflecting on the ways these two remarkable individuals enriched their lives. Vigils, memorials, and gatherings are being planned to honor their lives and provide space for collective mourning.

In the midst of grief, the community is finding strength in solidarity. People are reaching out to offer condolences to the families, sharing stories of Brian and Laurie’s kindness, and celebrating the love and joy they brought into the world.

Honoring Their Legacy

Though Brian and Laurie are no longer with us, their legacy endures in the lives they touched. Their commitment to family, friends, and community serves as a lasting reminder of the power of kindness, love, and compassion.

Through shared memories and continued acts of love and generosity, the community can ensure that their spirits live on. From heartfelt stories to personal tributes, Brian and Laurie’s influence will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know them.

A Call to Remember and Reflect

As the community mourns, it is also a time to reflect on the beauty of life, the importance of human connection, and the impact one person can have on many. Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway will be remembered not only for the lives they led but for the way they made others feel seen, valued, and loved.

Their passing leaves an indelible mark, and while grief is heavy, the celebration of their lives and the memories they leave behind offer a path toward healing and remembrance.

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Rest in peace, Brian Merchant and Laurie Ridgway.
Your lives touched many, your memories endure, and your legacy of love and kindness will never be forgotten.

Adams County Mourns the Tragic Loss of Jaden D. Gutting

ADAMS COUNTY, Ill. — The tight-knit community of Adams County is grappling with profound grief following the untimely death of Jaden D. Gutting, a 22-year-old resident of Mendon, who was killed in a single-vehicle crash Friday morning. The tragedy has sent waves of sorrow through his family, friends, and neighbors, leaving all who knew him mourning a bright young life cut far too short.

The Incident

According to local authorities, the crash occurred early Friday morning when Gutting’s vehicle went off the roadway under circumstances still under investigation. Emergency responders arrived on the scene quickly, but despite their efforts, Jaden was pronounced dead at the site. The incident is currently being investigated by local law enforcement to determine contributing factors.

Remembering a Life Full of Promise

Those who knew Jaden remember him as an energetic, kind-hearted, and determined young man. At just 22, he had a bright future ahead, filled with dreams, goals, and opportunities that will now remain unfulfilled. Friends describe him as someone who could light up a room with his laughter, who brought positivity to those around him, and who always found ways to help and support his community.

Family members have spoken of his warmth, loyalty, and dedication to those he loved most. In the face of this sudden loss, they are left with an immense sense of emptiness, reflecting on a life that touched so many and was taken too soon.

Impact on the Community

Jaden’s death has reverberated through Mendon and the surrounding areas of Adams County, leaving neighbors and community members grappling with the tragic reality of losing one of their own. Local leaders, friends, and fellow residents have expressed condolences and offered support to the grieving family. Vigils, memorial gatherings, and messages of sympathy have poured in, underscoring the strong bonds that tie the community together in times of loss.

Honoring Jaden’s Memory

Even in the face of tragedy, Jaden’s life will be remembered and celebrated. Those closest to him recall his joy, his humor, and the simple ways he made a difference in the lives of those around him. Memorials and tributes in his honor will ensure that his legacy endures and that the impact of his presence in the community is never forgotten.

His family and friends are encouraging the community to cherish one another and hold their loved ones close, as a reminder of how precious life truly is.

Moving Forward

As Adams County mourns, the loss of Jaden D. Gutting serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support. Friends, neighbors, and local authorities are rallying together to provide emotional support to those most affected by this heartbreaking event.

While his life was tragically cut short, Jaden’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. The hope is that his spirit — defined by kindness, laughter, and promise — will continue to inspire those who knew him to live with the same warmth and generosity he embodied.

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Rest in peace, Jaden D. Gutting.
Though your time with us was far too brief, your impact and memory will remain forever in the hearts of your family, friends, and the Adams County community.

Tragedy Strikes in Indian River County During Routine Eviction Operation

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, Fla. — What began as a standard civil service operation turned into a scene of heartbreak and chaos on Friday morning, when gunfire erupted during the delivery of an eviction notice at a residence in the Bermuda Club community, located north of Vero Beach. The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Deputy Terri Mashkow was killed in the line of duty. Two other individuals—a fellow deputy and a locksmith assisting with the eviction—sustained injuries in the violent encounter.

The Incident

According to authorities, deputies arrived at the residence early Friday morning to serve a court-ordered eviction notice. During the operation, gunfire was discharged inside the home, leading to the tragic death of Deputy Mashkow. The other deputy and a locksmith were injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment. The suspect, who allegedly fired the weapon, was engaged by law enforcement and also sustained injuries during the incident.

Sheriff Eric Flowers described the event as “a routine civil-service call that turned into a tragedy,” emphasizing the shock and grief felt throughout the department. He noted that Deputy Mashkow was a dedicated and highly respected member of the sheriff’s office, with decades of service to the community.

Honoring Deputy Terri Mashkow

Deputy Mashkow, 47, had served the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office for more than 25 years, starting her career as a dispatcher and later working in civil-process operations. She was known among colleagues for her professionalism, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to public service.

In a statement, Sheriff Flowers said, “Terri had a beautiful heart. She dedicated her life to protecting and serving our community. She will be deeply missed, and her sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Colleagues and friends have described Mashkow as a mentor, a reliable team member, and a trusted friend. Her passing has left a profound void within the sheriff’s office and the broader community she served so faithfully.

Impact on the Community

The violent events of Friday morning have left residents of the Bermuda Club and the surrounding areas in shock. For a community accustomed to peaceful neighborhood interactions, the tragedy underscores the unpredictable risks that law enforcement officers face even during routine duties.

Local officials and community leaders have expressed their condolences to Deputy Mashkow’s family, as well as to the injured deputies and civilians. Support and counseling services have been made available to employees of the sheriff’s office and community members affected by the incident.

A Community United in Mourning

As the investigation continues, the Indian River County community is coming together to honor the life and service of Deputy Mashkow. Vigils, memorial services, and community gatherings are expected to provide space for collective grief and remembrance.

Deputy Mashkow’s courage and dedication serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers daily. Her legacy will continue through the countless lives she touched and the colleagues she inspired throughout her career.

Moving Forward

While the circumstances of her death are devastating, authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the community and the proper administration of civil processes. Law enforcement agencies are reviewing policies and procedures to mitigate the risks associated with eviction and civil-service operations in the future.

Deputy Terri Mashkow’s life and service will be remembered not only for her professional contributions but also for the kindness, integrity, and dedication that defined her character. Her memory will endure in the hearts of her family, colleagues, and the Indian River County community she served so faithfully.

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Rest in Peace, Deputy Terri Mashkow.
Your life of service, courage, and dedication will never be forgotten.

Kansas City Grieves the Heartbreaking Loss of JaQuis Jones — A Loving Mother, Cherished Daughter, and Beautiful Soul

The Kansas City community is shattered by the heartbreaking loss of JaQuis Jones, a devoted mother whose life was rooted in love, responsibility, and hope for the future. Her passing yesterday evening has created a deep and painful void — one that will be felt every day by the many hearts she touched, but most profoundly by her baby girl, who relied on her mother’s warmth, guidance, and unwavering devotion.

A Mother Who Loved Fiercely

JaQuis’s greatest pride in life was her role as a mother. Those who knew her say that nurturing her daughter was not just something she did — it was who she was. She was the type of woman who would sacrifice without hesitation, who showed up for every moment, big or small, ensuring that her child felt safe, loved, and supported.

Her family speaks of the joy she found in motherhood, the way her eyes lit up when her daughter smiled, and how being a parent brought out her deepest strength and purpose.

A Daughter Who Brought Light to Her Family

To her parents and loved ones, JaQuis was a beautiful soul — loyal, thoughtful, and full of compassion. She had a gift for lifting others’ spirits, even when her own burdens were heavy. Her laughter could brighten the dullest day, and her presence brought comfort, especially to the people she loved the most.

The loss of a child is a sorrow that words can barely hold, and her family is now forced to navigate a grief that feels too heavy to bear. They mourn not only the person she was but the future she deserved — the birthdays, milestones, and dreams that will never be realized.

A Friend and Community Member Who Cared Deeply

Friends describe JaQuis as someone who made everyone feel seen. She was the one who checked in, who offered help without needing to be asked, who put love into action. Whether through a simple hug, a shared laugh, or quiet encouragement, she had a way of turning strangers into friends and friends into family.

The shock of her passing has rippled through the community — a reminder of how fragile life can be and how precious every shared moment truly is.

A Legacy of Love That Will Never Fade

Although her time here was far too short, JaQuis leaves behind a lasting legacy:

• A daughter who will grow up surrounded by stories of her mother’s love

• A family who will honor her memory through the strength she taught them

• A community that will remember the kindness she gave so freely

Even in grief, those who knew her find comfort in the impact she leaves behind. Her love continues — in the heart of her child, in the memories that bring both tears and smiles, and in the countless ways she made life brighter for others.

Holding Her Family in Compassion

As Kansas City mourns this devastating loss, the community stands united in support — offering prayers, comfort, and the promise that JaQuis’s memory will not be forgotten. Her family faces an unimaginable road ahead, but they will not walk it alone.

Her spirit — pure, loving, resilient — lives on in the lives she touched.

May JaQuis Jones rest in peace, and may her daughter always feel the love of the mother who cherished her with all her heart.

St. Bernard Preparatory School Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Junior Student Sarah Cumbie

St. Bernard Preparatory School is enveloped in deep sorrow as the community grieves the devastating loss of Sarah Cumbie, a cherished junior whose bright future and loving spirit were taken far too soon. Sarah passed away yesterday after a sudden and severe illness, leaving the entire school and Abbey family carrying an unimaginable weight of grief.

Students, faculty, and staff have come together in shared mourning, offering steadfast support to Dr. Craig Mann and his family, who are enduring heartbreak no parent should ever have to experience. The corridors of St. Bernard are quieter now, each corner carrying memories of Sarah’s presence—her kindness, her warmth, and the peaceful determination that made her a guiding light among peers.

A Heart That Radiated Kindness

Sarah was known not for seeking the spotlight, but for uplifting others within it. Friends speak of her gentle laughter and her ability to make others feel included and valued. Teachers admired her strong work ethic and the thoughtful way she approached each task. She had an unwavering compassion that left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

It is that quiet strength—a strength rooted in faith, humility, and empathy—that the St. Bernard family now remembers with reverence.

A Pillar of Faith and Resilience

Throughout her illness, Sarah demonstrated remarkable resilience and grace, reflecting the courage of someone far beyond her years. Her life was a testament to the values that St. Bernard holds dear: love of God, love of neighbor, dedication to learning, and service to others. Even in moments of profound struggle, her hope remained unshaken.

The monastic community at the Abbey joins the school in prayer, lifting Sarah and her family before God with heartfelt devotion. Masses and rosaries will be said in her memory, as classmates and loved ones find solace in the faith that shaped Sarah’s life.

A School United in Mourning

Counselors and campus ministers have been made available to students and staff as they process this loss together. Teachers have opened their classrooms—and their hearts—to those who need comfort. Friends have gathered in small circles of remembrance, sharing stories that remind them that even in sadness, Sarah’s spirit continues to shine.

Tributes are already appearing across campus—handwritten notes, flowers, candles, and symbols of friendship placed lovingly near spaces Sarah once brightened. The school plans to honor her in meaningful ways in the days ahead, ensuring that her legacy remains alive within the community she loved so deeply.

Holding the Cumbie Family in Prayer

As St. Bernard Preparatory School continues to navigate the days ahead with grief and grace, the community remains committed to surrounding the Cumbie family with unwavering love and support. The pain of losing someone so young is indescribable, but in this shared heartbreak, the community stands together—shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart.

Though Sarah’s time on Earth was far too short, her impact was immeasurable. She will be remembered not only for what she did, but for who she was: a remarkable young woman whose kindness became a ministry, whose faith became a beacon, and whose memory will forever be etched into the soul of St. Bernard.

May Sarah Cumbie rest in the eternal peace of Christ, and may those who love her find comfort in the promise that her light endures.