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In Loving Memory of 

Derek Devol Brandon II You are forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — With profound sadness, the Winston-Salem community gathers in remembrance of Derek Devol Brandon II, 27, whose life was tragically taken on Friday during a confrontation on Quantum Court. His passing has left a deep and painful void in the hearts of his family, friends, and neighbors — a void that words can scarcely begin to fill.

According to the Winston-Salem Police Department, officers responded at approximately 11:50 a.m. to reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found Derek suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the determined efforts of first responders and medical personnel, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital. Authorities later located 25-year-old Je’Juan Khyre Watson near the scene and took him into custody. He has been charged with felony murder and is currently being held without bond at the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center as the investigation continues.

Yet beyond the details of that tragic day was a young man whose life carried meaning, promise, and love.

At just 27 years old, Derek Devol Brandon II was stepping fully into adulthood — building his path, shaping his dreams, and leaving his mark on the world around him. He was a son whose presence brought pride and joy, a friend whose loyalty ran deep, and a young man whose energy and personality made him unforgettable to those who knew him best.

Those close to Derek describe him as vibrant and determined — someone who carried himself with confidence yet had a heart that was warm and genuine. He had aspirations for his future, goals he was working toward, and a belief that tomorrow held opportunity. His smile could lighten a room, and his conversations often revealed thoughtfulness beyond his years.

To his family, Derek was more than a name in the news. He was a beloved child whose laughter once echoed through their home, a sibling who shared memories and milestones, and a young man whose life was interwoven with theirs in countless meaningful ways. The grief they now endure is unimaginable, the silence left behind profound.

The loss has rippled throughout Winston-Salem. Neighbors who once exchanged greetings now share condolences. Friends gather not just to mourn, but to celebrate the moments that defined Derek’s life — the jokes he told, the support he offered, the times he stood by them when it mattered most. In the face of tragedy, community becomes both refuge and reminder: refuge in shared sorrow, and reminder that every life touches many others.

Violence leaves scars that extend far beyond a single moment. It reshapes families, alters futures, and forces communities to confront difficult questions. But even in sorrow, there is purpose in remembrance. Honoring Derek’s life means focusing not solely on how it ended, but on how it was lived — with ambition, connection, and heart.

As the legal process moves forward and investigations continue, those who loved Derek hold tight to the memories that cannot be taken from them. Photographs, voice messages, inside jokes, and shared experiences now become treasures — pieces of him that remain alive in spirit.

To the family of Derek Devol Brandon II, may you feel the embrace of a community standing beside you. May you find strength in one another and comfort in knowing that his life mattered deeply. And may the love you shared provide light in the darkest moments.

Though his time here was far too brief, Derek’s impact will not be forgotten. His story lives on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his memory will continue to inspire reflection, unity, and compassion.

Rest peacefully, Derek.

You are forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of 

Dalton McMillen

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Marion community is united in grief as it mourns the tragic and untimely loss of Dalton McMillen, 33, who lost his life Friday night in a devastating accident involving a CSX train at the Kenton Avenue crossing. The heartbreaking incident not only claimed Dalton’s life but also left a 12-year-old child seriously injured — a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how swiftly everything can change.

According to Marion Police Major B.J. Gruber, dispatchers received an urgent call around 8:40 p.m. from CSX Transportation reporting that two pedestrians had been struck by a train. Officers responded quickly to the crossing, where they found Dalton unresponsive. Despite all efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Nearby, a young child was discovered trapped beneath the train, requiring immediate extrication. The child was first transported to Marion General Hospital and later airlifted to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus for specialized treatment. As Dalton’s loved ones begin the painful journey of grief, the community continues to pray fervently for the child’s recovery.

Yet beyond the details of that tragic night lies the story of a life that mattered deeply.

Dalton McMillen was more than the circumstances of his passing. At 33 years old, he was a man in the midst of life — building dreams, nurturing relationships, and leaving his mark in ways both big and small. Those who knew him describe a person with a generous heart and a quiet strength. He was someone who showed up when it mattered, who offered support without being asked, and who valued family and friendship above all else.

In Marion, Dalton was part of the everyday rhythm of the community — a familiar face, a helping hand, a presence that will now be deeply missed. Whether through his work, his friendships, or his time spent with loved ones, he lived in a way that reflected compassion and resilience.

For his family, Dalton’s loss is immeasurable. He was a son whose life represented hope and promise, a brother whose bond cannot be replaced, and a loved one whose laughter and voice will echo in memory. The grief they carry is profound, but so too is the love that surrounds his name.

The Kenton Avenue crossing, once just another part of daily life, now holds a somber weight. In the quiet after the sirens fade and the trains move on, the community is left to reflect — to hold one another closer, to cherish the moments often taken for granted, and to remember that every day is a gift.

As investigations continue and questions seek answers, the focus remains on honoring Dalton’s life. His story is not defined by tragedy, but by the relationships he built and the kindness he shared. The measure of a life is found not only in years lived, but in the impact left behind — and Dalton’s impact is evident in the outpouring of love and support from those who knew him.

At the same time, hearts across Marion and Columbus remain lifted in prayer and hope for the young child fighting to recover. In the midst of sorrow, the community clings to hope — hope for healing, hope for strength, and hope that even in darkness, light can still be found.

To the family and friends of Dalton McMillen, may you find comfort in cherished memories — in the warmth of his smile, the sound of his laughter, and the love he gave so freely. May you feel supported by a community that shares in your sorrow and stands beside you during this unimaginable time.

Rest in peace, Dalton.

Your life was precious, your presence meaningful, and your memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who love you.

In Loving Memory of 

Parker Sutherland

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — The community of University of Northern Iowa is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Parker Sutherland, a freshman tight end for the Panthers football team, who passed away on Saturday morning. Though his time on this earth was far too short, Parker’s impact was profound — felt deeply by teammates, classmates, coaches, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud native of Iowa City, Parker carried with him the values of hard work, humility, and heart. He was more than just an athlete wearing the Panther uniform — he was a dedicated student, a loyal friend, and a beloved son and brother whose character shone even brighter than his athletic achievements.

During his freshman season in 2025, Parker appeared in four games for the Panthers, embracing every opportunity to contribute to his team. As a tight end, he brought strength, focus, and determination to the field. But beyond the stats and game-day appearances, it was his work ethic at practice, his encouragement of teammates, and his quiet leadership that truly defined him. Coaches often speak of athletes who make a difference in the locker room — Parker was one of those rare individuals whose presence elevated everyone around him.

Before continuing his football journey at UNI, Parker was a standout athlete at Iowa City High School. There, he earned second-team all-state honors in football, a testament to his skill and dedication. Yet his talents did not stop at the gridiron. He also excelled in basketball and baseball, showcasing not only athletic versatility but an unwavering competitive spirit. Whether under the Friday night lights, on the hardwood, or on the baseball diamond, Parker gave his all — not for personal glory, but for the love of the game and the pride of representing his team.

Those who knew Parker describe him as kind, respectful, and grounded. He balanced athletics with academics, understanding that success was built not just on physical ability, but on discipline and integrity. He approached life with gratitude and a steady determination to grow, improve, and support those around him.

For his family, Parker was a source of immense pride and joy. He was a son whose laughter filled rooms, a brother whose encouragement meant everything, and a young man whose dreams were just beginning to unfold. The loss of such a bright future is a pain that words cannot fully capture.

Within the Panther football family, grief runs deep. Teammates who lined up beside him now carry both sorrow and a renewed sense of purpose — to honor his memory with the same heart and dedication he showed every day. His jersey, his locker, his position on the field — they now symbolize not only loss but legacy.

Tragedy reminds us how fragile and precious life truly is. Parker’s passing leaves an emptiness in Cedar Falls and beyond, but it also leaves a powerful example of what it means to live with passion, humility, and commitment. His story is not defined by its length, but by its depth — by the way he loved his family, supported his friends, and pursued his dreams with courage.

As the University of Northern Iowa community comes together in remembrance, may they find comfort in shared memories: the roar of the crowd, the camaraderie of teammates, the pride of a young man representing his hometown. May Parker’s life continue to inspire future Panthers to play with heart, to lead with integrity, and to cherish every opportunity.

To Parker Sutherland’s family, may you feel the embrace of an entire community standing beside you. May you find peace in knowing that his life mattered deeply and that his legacy will endure far beyond the football field.

Rest peacefully, Parker.

Your strength, spirit, and light will forever remain a part of Panther Nation.

In Loving Memory of 

Tobias Hood You are forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

CINCINNATI — With heavy hearts, we remember and honor the life of Tobias Hood, 29, whose life was tragically taken during a shooting in Downtown Cincinnati early Saturday morning. His sudden and heartbreaking passing has left his family, friends, and the entire community in mourning.

According to the Cincinnati Police Department, officers responded around 1 a.m. to reports of gunfire near Third Street and Main Street. Upon arrival, they discovered Tobias unresponsive inside a bus commonly used to transport large groups to nightlife destinations. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Another man was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Yet beyond the flashing lights and crime scene tape was a young man whose life carried meaning, purpose, and love.

At 29 years old, Tobias was a son, a brother, a friend, and a cherished presence in the lives of many. He stood at a chapter in life filled with promise — building his future, nurturing relationships, and striving toward goals only he could fully envision. Those who knew him speak of his warmth, his loyalty, and the way he could light up a room with his smile. He had a way of making people feel seen and valued, whether through a conversation, a shared laugh, or simply his steady presence.

To his family, Tobias was more than a name in a headline. He was a source of pride and joy. He carried the values instilled in him — resilience, compassion, and determination. His laughter echoed at family gatherings. His hugs offered comfort. His words carried encouragement. The memories he leaves behind are not defined by his final moments, but by the countless days and nights filled with connection and love.

The violence that ended his life has shaken the Cincinnati community. Downtown streets that once symbolized excitement and celebration now hold the weight of loss. In the quiet aftermath, loved ones are left grappling with grief that feels both sudden and unimaginable. A routine night out became a life-altering moment for so many.

As the investigation continues, the focus for those who loved Tobias remains on remembering who he was — not how he died. He was a young man with dreams still unfolding. He had plans yet to be realized, milestones yet to be celebrated, and years ahead that should have been filled with growth and joy.

In times like these, communities are reminded of the fragility of life and the urgent need for compassion, peace, and unity. Each life holds immeasurable value. Each story deserves to be honored with dignity and respect.

To the family of Tobias Hood, may you find strength in one another. May you feel the embrace of community support during this unimaginable time. And may the beautiful memories you carry provide comfort in the days ahead — memories of laughter, of shared experiences, and of love that remains unbroken by loss.

Though his life was cut short, Tobias’ impact endures. His spirit lives on in the hearts of those who refuse to let his memory fade.

Rest in peace, Tobias Hood.

You are forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of 

Tobias Hood You are deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

CINCINNATI — The city stands in sorrow as we remember the life of Tobias Hood, 29, whose life was tragically taken in a violent incident in downtown Cincinnati early Saturday morning. His sudden passing has left a deep ache in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him, as the community grapples with yet another heartbreaking loss.

According to the Cincinnati Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 1 a.m. in the area of Third Street and Main Street. When they arrived, they discovered Tobias unresponsive on a bus used for transporting large groups to nightlife destinations. Despite the urgency of the response, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Another individual was found nearby and transported to a local hospital; the extent of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed. Authorities later arrested De’Angelo Robinson, 28, on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

But beyond the headlines and flashing lights was a young man whose life meant so much more than the moment it was taken.

At 29, Tobias Hood was in the prime of his life — a son, a brother, a friend, and a presence that brought energy and warmth into any space he entered. Those who knew him describe a man with a vibrant spirit and a generous heart. He was someone who could make others laugh even on their hardest days, someone who showed up for the people he loved without hesitation.

Family members remember his determination and the quiet strength he carried. He had dreams, plans, and goals that stretched far beyond the city streets where his life ended. He was building a future, step by step, with hope and resilience. His life was filled with moments of joy — celebrations with friends, late-night conversations, shared music, and laughter that echoed long after the moment passed.

The violence that claimed his life has left more than grief; it has left questions, frustration, and a longing for peace. In the early hours of what should have been an ordinary Saturday, everything changed. What was meant to be a night of connection and community turned into a scene of heartbreak.

Downtown Cincinnati, a place known for its vibrant energy and gathering spaces, now carries the memory of a young man whose life was taken far too soon. As the investigation continues, loved ones are left to process a loss that feels both sudden and senseless.

Tobias’ passing is a solemn reminder of how fragile life can be. Each day we are given is a gift, and each life holds immeasurable value. In honoring him, we are reminded to hold our loved ones closer, to speak kindness more freely, and to work toward communities where safety and peace are not hopes, but realities.

To his family, your grief is shared by many. May you find comfort in the memories that cannot be taken — in the sound of his laughter, in the strength of his embrace, and in the love he gave so freely. May you feel surrounded by support as you navigate the days ahead.

Though Tobias Hood’s life was cut short, his impact will not fade. His story lives on in the hearts of those who carry his memory forward. His name will be spoken with love, his life remembered with honor, and his spirit cherished always.

Rest peacefully, Tobias.

You are deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of 

Robert Terry Homesley

SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. — With hearts weighed down by grief, we pause to honor and remember the life of Robert Terry Homesley, an 87-year-old resident of Alexis, North Carolina, whose life was tragically taken in a head-on crash on Interstate 26 Friday night. His sudden passing has left an emptiness that words can scarcely fill, not only within his family but throughout the communities that were blessed to know him.

The devastating collision occurred near mile marker 44 on I-26 just before 10 p.m. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel and the dedicated efforts of the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Mr. Homesley was pronounced deceased at approximately 9:55 p.m., according to the Spartanburg County Coroner. A forensic examination was scheduled for Saturday morning as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, seeking answers and reaffirming their commitment to roadway safety.

Yet beyond the details of that tragic night lies a story far greater — the story of a life well lived.

At 87 years old, Robert Terry Homesley carried with him nearly nine decades of memories, wisdom, and quiet strength. He was more than a name in a report; he was a father whose guidance shaped generations, a grandfather whose stories and laughter filled rooms, and a loyal friend whose presence brought comfort and reassurance. Those who knew him speak of a man grounded in values — kindness, humility, hard work, and devotion to family.

In Alexis, North Carolina, he was part of the fabric of everyday life. He belonged to a generation that understood sacrifice, resilience, and the beauty of simple moments. Whether sharing conversations on a porch, offering a helping hand to a neighbor, or spending cherished time with loved ones, Mr. Homesley embodied the quiet dignity of a life rooted in love and integrity.

To his children and grandchildren, he was a steady foundation — the one who showed up, who listened, who led by example rather than by words alone. His lessons were not only spoken but lived: treat people with respect, honor your commitments, and cherish family above all else. The legacy he leaves behind is not measured in years alone, but in the character and compassion he instilled in those who carry his name forward.

The pain of losing him so suddenly is profound. Tragedy has a way of reminding us how fragile life can be. A routine drive turned into an unimaginable loss, and in a single moment, everything changed. But even in sorrow, there is gratitude — gratitude for 87 years of shared holidays, warm embraces, and conversations that now echo tenderly in memory.

As authorities continue their investigation, the community reflects not only on the importance of roadway safety but also on the preciousness of every journey we take. Each mile traveled holds a story, and each life touched leaves an imprint long after it is gone.

Today, we remember Robert Terry Homesley not for how he died, but for how he lived. We remember his steady presence, his unwavering love for family, and the countless small acts of goodness that defined his character. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, the love he planted continues to grow in the hearts of those who knew him.

To his family, may you find comfort in the beautiful memories you shared. May you feel his presence in the quiet moments — in familiar laughter, in cherished photographs, in the lessons that guide you forward. And may you be reminded that a life lived with love never truly fades.

Rest peacefully, Robert Terry Homesley.

Your road may have ended here, but your legacy travels on — carried in the hearts of all who loved you.

In Loving Memory of Leeiam Cole May he rest peacefully, forever cherished and forever loved.

The Lee County community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 2-year-old Leeiam Cole, a precious young child whose life was tragically cut short in a pedestrian-involved crash on Route 23 south in the Jasper section of the county. The devastating incident also left his mother, Hailee Brooke, seriously injured, sending waves of sorrow through the community and leaving family, friends, and neighbors grappling with unimaginable grief.

According to the Virginia State Police, the crash occurred at mile marker 25.4 when 22-year-old Hailee Brooke and her 27-month-old son entered the roadway on foot after leaving a nearby residence. As they stepped into the southbound lanes, they were struck by a 2016 Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Emergency responders arrived swiftly and worked with urgency and compassion. Tragically, little Leeiam Cole was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother was airlifted to Johnson City Medical Center for treatment of life-threatening injuries. Authorities confirmed that the driver of the pickup truck was not injured.

But beyond the facts of that tragic day is the story of a little boy whose life, though brief, was filled with innocence and love.

At just two years old, Leeiam was in the beautiful, tender stage of early childhood — a time of first words, tiny footsteps, and endless curiosity. Children at that age see the world as a place of wonder. They laugh freely, trust deeply, and love without hesitation. Leeiam’s days were meant to be filled with bedtime stories, scraped knees from playtime, favorite snacks, and the comforting embrace of his mother’s arms.

To his family, he was everything. He was the sound of little feet running through the house, the giggles that brightened long days, the warm hugs that made life sweeter. He was a son deeply loved, a grandson cherished, and a small but powerful presence in the lives of those around him. His absence now leaves a silence that feels overwhelming.

The Jasper community and all of Lee County feel this loss deeply. In close-knit communities, tragedy touches everyone. Neighbors know one another. Families grow up side by side. News like this spreads quickly and settles heavily on every heart. People find themselves holding their own children closer, whispering prayers for healing, and searching for understanding in the face of heartbreak.

The loss of a child is a grief unlike any other. It is not only mourning the life that was lived, but also the life that would have been — birthdays yet to come, first days of school, dreams still waiting to unfold. Leeiam’s future was full of possibility, and though his time here was short, the love he inspired will endure far beyond those two precious years.

As Hailee Brooke fights to recover from her injuries, the community stands in hope and prayer for her healing — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The bond between mother and child is sacred and profound, and her journey forward will require immense strength and support. May she be surrounded by compassion in every step of her recovery.

While investigations continue and questions linger, one truth remains: Leeiam Cole’s life mattered. He was here. He was loved. He made a difference in the hearts of those who knew him.

In this time of sorrow, may the Lee County community continue to come together — offering comfort, meals, prayers, and quiet presence to a family facing unbearable pain. May kindness rise where grief feels overwhelming. May unity offer strength where words fall short.

We remember Leeiam not for the tragedy that ended his life, but for the innocence, joy, and light he brought into the world. Two short years. Countless moments of love. A lifetime of memories carried in the hearts of those who will never forget him.

May he rest peacefully, forever cherished and forever loved.

In Loving Memory of Jeremiah Cash Carter May he rest gently and peacefully, forever held in love.

The Sacramento community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 3-year-old Jeremiah Cash Carter, who tragically passed away after being found with severe injuries at a home on the 3300 block of Douglas Street. The news has left neighbors, friends, and the wider community struggling to process the devastating loss of such a young life — a life filled with innocence, wonder, and limitless promise.

According to the Sacramento Police Department, officers were called to the residence on Thursday around noon for a medical-aid call. Upon arrival, they discovered Jeremiah in critical condition. Police and first responders immediately began life-saving measures, working urgently to give the little boy every possible chance. Despite their efforts, Jeremiah was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

But beyond the official statements and investigative details is a child who was deeply loved.

At just three years old, Jeremiah was in the tender season of early childhood — a time of bright curiosity, tiny footsteps, and joyful discovery. Children at that age see the world with pure amazement. Every sound is new. Every color is vibrant. Every hug feels like home. Jeremiah’s days should have been filled with laughter, bedtime stories, favorite toys, and the simple comfort of feeling safe and cherished.

To his family, he was more than a name. He was a son whose smile could light up a room. He was little hands reaching for comfort, little feet running through hallways, little words forming big expressions of love. His presence brought warmth, and his absence now leaves an ache that is impossible to measure.

For neighbors on Douglas Street, the tragedy feels especially close. The quiet rhythm of the neighborhood has been disrupted by sorrow. It is difficult to comprehend how such pain could touch such a small and innocent life. Community members find themselves holding their own children a little tighter, reflecting on the fragility of life and the preciousness of every moment.

The loss of a child carries a unique and profound grief. It is not only the loss of who they were, but also the loss of all they were becoming. Birthdays yet to be celebrated. First days of school. Dreams not yet imagined. Futures that should have unfolded over decades are instead remembered in just three short years.

As the investigation continues, the focus for many remains on honoring Jeremiah’s life — however brief — with dignity and love. His story matters. His life mattered. He was here. He was loved. And he will not be forgotten.

In times like these, communities often come together in quiet solidarity — offering prayers, lighting candles, sharing messages of support, and standing beside grieving families in whatever ways they can. Grief may be heavy, but compassion can help carry its weight.

To Jeremiah’s loved ones, may you find strength in the memories you hold and comfort in knowing that your precious child touched more hearts than you may ever fully realize. To the Sacramento community, may unity and care continue to surround this family during an unimaginably painful time.

We remember Jeremiah Cash Carter not for the tragedy that ended his life, but for the light he brought into the world during his short time here. Three years of innocence. Three years of love. Three years that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

May he rest gently and peacefully, forever held in love.

In Loving Memory of Ny Asia Hill and Deandre Lilly

In the quiet hours of Thursday night, tragedy struck the heart of Portsmouth, leaving a community grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of two young lives filled with promise and possibility. At the intersection of Elm Avenue and High Street, a devastating three-vehicle crash claimed the lives of 23-year-old Ny Asia Hill and 24-year-old Deandre Lilly.

Just before 11 p.m., officers responded to the scene, where the unimaginable had already occurred. According to authorities, a vehicle traveling westbound on High Street collided with another vehicle. The force of that impact pushed the struck vehicle into a pickup truck, creating a chain reaction that ended in irreversible loss. Police later confirmed that alcohol was a factor in the crash, and charges are pending as the investigation continues.

But beyond the flashing lights and official statements are two beautiful lives that meant everything to the people who loved them.

At 23, Ny Asia Hill carried the brightness of youth — dreams unfolding, goals forming, and a future still being written. She was someone’s daughter, someone’s sister, someone’s friend. She had laughter that filled rooms and a presence that left impressions long after she had gone. Those who knew her speak of her warmth, her spirit, and the unique light she brought into every space she entered. Her life, though far too short, was meaningful and impactful.

Deandre Lilly, just 24 years old, stood at the threshold of adulthood with strength and ambition. He was building his path, shaping his story, and making his mark in quiet and powerful ways. To his family and friends, he was dependable, loyal, and full of heart. He carried hopes for tomorrow and plans that stretched far beyond that Thursday night. His absence now leaves a silence that feels overwhelming.

Portsmouth is a community where news like this does not pass quietly. It lingers. It settles into conversations, into churches, into homes. The intersection of Elm Avenue and High Street will forever carry the weight of remembrance — a place where life changed in an instant.

The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how fragile life truly is. One moment can alter countless lives. One decision can ripple outward in ways that cannot be undone. And in the aftermath, families are left holding memories — photos, messages, shared laughter — treasures that now carry even deeper meaning.

Grief is complicated and heavy, especially when it involves young lives lost too soon. There are birthdays that will now be remembered in silence. Holidays that will feel incomplete. Futures imagined but never realized. Yet even in this deep sorrow, love remains stronger than loss.

Ny Asia and Deandre will be remembered not for the tragic way their lives ended, but for the lives they lived — for their smiles, their personalities, their relationships, and the countless small acts that made them who they were. Their stories did not begin at that intersection, and they will not end there in the hearts of those who loved them.

To their families, may you find strength in one another and comfort in the embrace of a community that mourns alongside you. To their friends, may shared memories bring moments of warmth amid the pain. And to the city of Portsmouth, may compassion and unity rise in the face of heartbreak.

We honor Ny Asia Hill and Deandre Lilly — two young souls whose time here was brief but whose impact will endure. May their memories be carried forward with love, and may they rest in eternal peace.

In Loving Memory of 

Carter Johnson

With broken hearts and deep sorrow, we remember the life of 19-year-old Carter Johnson, a freshman student-athlete whose life was tragically cut short following a devastating bus crash in Iowa. What began as a routine day of travel for a college baseball team turned into an unimaginable tragedy that has left a family grieving, teammates shaken, and an entire community mourning.

According to the Iowa State Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 11 a.m. west of Twin Lakes when a bus carrying members of the Iowa Lakes Community College baseball team went off the highway and overturned in a ditch. Authorities reported that the 74-year-old driver failed to negotiate a curve and overcorrected before the bus rolled. There were 33 people on board.

Two individuals were ejected and trapped beneath the bus after it came to rest. Injuries ranged from minor to severe. Because of the number of victims and the seriousness of the situation, the Calhoun County Emergency Management Agency declared a Mass Casualty Incident. Multiple medical helicopters were called to the scene, and ambulances from surrounding areas rushed in to provide aid and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. A college van carrying six additional individuals was traveling behind the bus but was not involved in the crash.

Among those critically injured was Carter Johnson, a freshman on the baseball team. Despite medical efforts, he did not survive his injuries. The news of his passing has sent waves of heartbreak across campus and far beyond.

Carter was more than a student-athlete. He was a son, a teammate, a friend — a young man just beginning to carve out his path in life. As a freshman, he carried the excitement of new beginnings: new classes, new friendships, new opportunities to grow both academically and athletically. He stepped onto the baseball field with determination and pride, representing his school and teammates with heart.

His father, Jeff Johnson, shared that his son made a big difference. Those words speak volumes. To make a difference at just 19 years old is to live with purpose, to treat people with kindness, to show up with sincerity and passion. Carter’s impact was not measured in statistics alone but in the lives he touched — in dugout laughter, in shared bus rides, in locker room conversations, in everyday moments that now feel sacred.

For his teammates, the loss is especially heavy. They boarded that bus together as brothers in sport and friendship. They shared dreams of wins, seasons, and championships. Now, they must navigate grief while holding tightly to the memory of the young man who stood beside them on the field. The game they love will forever carry his memory — every pitch, every swing, every quiet moment before the first inning.

On campus, there is an emptiness that cannot be easily described. A classroom seat unfilled. A locker untouched. A name on a roster that now carries deeper meaning. Professors, coaches, and fellow students are left grappling with the fragility of life and the suddenness with which everything can change.

In times of tragedy, communities often reveal their strongest qualities — compassion, unity, and resilience. Emergency responders acted swiftly and courageously. Medical teams worked tirelessly. Friends and families gathered in prayer and support. In the midst of chaos, there was humanity.

Carter Johnson’s life, though far too short, mattered deeply. He lived with ambition, with spirit, and with a presence that left a mark. His story is not defined solely by the tragic accident that ended his life but by the love he gave, the dedication he showed, and the promise he carried.

To his family, may you find comfort in knowing how profoundly he was loved — not only by you but by teammates, classmates, and a wider community that now mourns alongside you. To his friends and fellow athletes, may his memory continue to inspire strength, unity, and perseverance.

We remember Carter Johnson not for the sorrow of his final moments, but for the brightness of his 19 years — for the difference he made and the legacy of heart he leaves behind.

May he rest in peace, forever remembered on the field, in the classroom, and in the hearts of all who knew him.