Author: Admin

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved cousin, Aramis Rankin, who departed this life far too soon on July 7, 2025, at the young age of 35. Her passing has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of her family, friends, and everyone blessed to have known her.

To honor Aramis’s life, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 19, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at:

Rainer-Kepner Funeral Home & Cremation Services

16901 Old Statesville Road

Huntersville, NC 28078

Aramis was a radiant presence—full of warmth, elegance, and quiet strength. Her laughter could brighten the darkest day, and her kindness left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path. Whether she was offering a helping hand, giving a heartfelt word of encouragement, or simply showing up for someone in need, Aramis was the kind of person who made this world a more beautiful place just by being in it.

To celebrate her spirit and the joy she brought into our lives, we kindly ask that attendees wear pink—a color that reflects Aramis’s grace, compassion, and vibrant soul.

If you would like to send flowers in her memory, arrangements may be directed to:

Harrisburg Funeral & Cremation

1920 Derita Road

Concord, NC 28207

The Rankin family deeply appreciates the outpouring of love, support, and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. Though our hearts are heavy, we are comforted by the memories, the love she shared, and the legacy Aramis leaves behind.

Let us gather to remember not just the way she left us, but the incredible way she lived—with beauty, strength, and an enduring love for those around her.

Rest in eternal peace, Aramis. Your light will never fade.

 

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Re Sullivan, who left this world on June 11, 2025. A life that brought light, laughter, and love to so many ended far too soon, leaving an enduring impact on everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Re was more than just a name to those around him—he was a force of kindness, humility, and quiet strength. Whether as a loving family member, a loyal friend, or a valued member of the community, Re was someone who made others feel seen, heard, and cared for. His presence was calming, his words thoughtful, and his actions always spoke of sincerity and heart.

Born with a gentle soul and a strong spirit, Re lived a life defined by compassion and integrity. He had a natural way of making people feel safe and supported, and his ability to bring calm in the midst of chaos was nothing short of remarkable. Those closest to him will remember his quick wit, warm smile, and the unique ability to brighten even the darkest of days.

Re believed in the power of small gestures—an encouraging word, a helping hand, a quiet moment of listening. These were the things that defined his life and built the legacy he leaves behind. He never sought the spotlight, but his influence was felt far and wide, carried in the hearts of family, friends, and all who knew him.

As we reflect on Re’s life, we honor the memories and moments that can never be replaced. From laughter shared at family gatherings to long, meaningful conversations under starlit skies—Re left an imprint that will endure. His life may have ended on this earth, but his love remains, woven into the lives of those who cherished him.

To lose Re is to lose a piece of what made our world feel whole. And yet, in our grief, we also find gratitude—grateful that we knew him, grateful that we were loved by him, and grateful that his legacy continues in every act of love, strength, and quiet courage we carry forward in his name.

May his soul find peace, and may those left behind find comfort in the lasting light he leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Re Sullivan. You are deeply missed, and forever remembered.

 

LOWELL, IN — July 11, 2025 -The community of Lowell, Indiana, is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Jessika Lile, a beloved mother, steadfast friend, and inspiring soul who passed away this week after a courageous and unrelenting battle with cancer. Her passing has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew her, yet her spirit continues to shine brightly through the countless lives she touched.

Jessika was more than her illness. She was a woman of profound resilience and love—a fighter who faced every challenge with grace and determination, even in the darkest moments. Through it all, she remained a pillar of strength for her family and friends, never allowing hardship to dim her hope or steal her joy. Her story is not defined by her suffering but by her unbreakable will to live, love, and care for those around her.

To those privileged to know her, Jessika was a devoted mother first and always. Her children were the light of her life, and she made sure every day counted—cherishing each moment, celebrating each milestone, and wrapping her family in a love so deep and constant it can never truly fade. Her dedication, her laughter, and her nurturing spirit created a home full of warmth, compassion, and unconditional love.

As a friend, Jessika was the person you could call at any hour. She was loyal, uplifting, and deeply empathetic—someone who listened with her whole heart and stood by your side no matter what. She gave selflessly, loved fiercely, and lived authentically.

Her battle with cancer was a testament to her incredible strength. Even as her body weakened, her spirit remained unshaken. She faced each day with the mindset of a warrior, not for herself alone, but for the ones she loved most. Her bravery inspired not just her family, but the entire Lowell community.

Now, as Lowell mourns, it also remembers:

Her radiant smile.

Her kind words.

Her fierce devotion.

Her laughter through tears.

Her legacy of love.

Jessika’s passing is a profound loss, but her story continues—in the children she raised, the friends she lifted, and the community she helped shape. Though she is no longer here in body, her presence lives on in every life she touched.

As we say goodbye, let us remember Jessika not for the fight she endured, but for the life she lived with such beauty, purpose, and heart.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this painful time. May they find comfort in knowing that Jessika’s light has not gone out—it now shines in every heart she helped heal and every life she helped love.

Rest in peace, Jessika Lile. Your strength will never be forgotten. Your love will never be lost.

 

Outside the gates of Camp Mystic, a powerful symbol now stands tall against the devastated landscape—a wooden cross, newly erected in solemn memory of the 27 campers who lost their lives in the catastrophic floods that tore through the Texas Hill Country.

It is a heartbreaking tribute in a place once filled with laughter, campfires, and the innocent joy of summer. Today, it stands quiet—echoing only with the grief of a tragedy that has forever changed this community. Five more people, including a beloved counselor, are still missing as recovery efforts continue. The pain remains raw, the silence heavy.

Around the base of the cross, teddy bears, candles, and carefully placed flowers offer tender reflections of the young lives cut short. A striking heart-shaped rock formation, built by volunteers and grieving family members, has become a sacred space for prayer, remembrance, and shared sorrow.

These tributes—humble, personal, and deeply moving—speak louder than words ever could. They reflect not only the magnitude of the loss but also the profound love and resilience of those left behind. Campers’ parents, counselors, first responders, and strangers alike have stopped by this growing memorial, some with tears, others with silent prayers. For all, it’s a place to pause and remember—to feel connected, even in the midst of overwhelming grief.

For many, the cross outside Camp Mystic is more than a marker. It’s a symbol of hope in a time of despair. A beacon of faith where there are no answers. A reminder that love, even when drowned by sorrow, still rises.

This site has become a pilgrimage of pain and purpose—a reminder of how fragile life is, how quickly everything can change, and how deeply a community can come together in moments of unimaginable loss.

As families wait for word about those still missing, prayers continue. The long nights and heavy days are filled with longing, love, and faith that their loved ones will be found.

What do these tributes mean to you? Whether you knew someone at Camp Mystic or are simply moved by the tragedy, your heart matters here. Let’s honor those lost by sharing their light—and by standing with the families who still wait.

Photo by Chris Garza

Camp Mystic, Texas

Gone, but never forgotten.

 

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we share the devastating news of the passing of Brent Zeluf—a man who was not only a beloved father, but also a mentor, a confidant, a leader, and a true pillar of strength. On July 8 ,2025 , we lost someone irreplaceable, whose life was defined by his deep commitment to family, his unwavering principles, and his incredible capacity to lead with both wisdom and heart.

For those who knew Brent, words will never be enough to capture the magnitude of his presence or the depth of the void left behind. He was a man who lived by example—one who stood for honesty, compassion, bravery, loyalty, and empathy. He didn’t just talk about values—he lived them every day, in the way he treated people, the way he showed up for his family, and the way he quietly, consistently gave back to his community.

Brent was my father, my mentor, and my best friend. He shaped my character and my worldview. He taught me the meaning of integrity—not through speeches, but through actions. He showed me how to lead with courage, how to give without expectation, and how to love unconditionally. His influence runs through every part of who I am, and I will spend the rest of my life trying to honor his memory by walking in his footsteps.

Those who crossed paths with Brent remember his generosity, his steadfast guidance, and his humble leadership. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing thoughtful advice, or simply listening when someone needed a friend, he impacted countless lives in ways both big and small. He was the kind of man people admired not because he sought recognition, but because he quietly embodied everything good and true.

Brent’s commitment to his family and community was unwavering. He carried the weight of responsibility with grace and took immense pride in supporting those around him. His love was a constant, his laughter a comfort, and his wisdom a compass for all who looked up to him.

As we grieve, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, honor, and heart. Brent’s legacy is not defined by the things he owned or the titles he held—but by the lives he touched, the character he displayed, and the love he poured into every relationship he held dear.

To —Brent Zeluf—thank you for being the extraordinary man you were. Thank you for your tireless devotion, your enduring strength, and your unconditional love.

You were, and always will be, the most exceptional man I have ever known.

Rest in peace,.

 

With unimaginable sorrow and a heart heavy with grief, Devyn Smith shared an update that no one ever wishes to give: her beloved sister, Kyndall Smith, has been recovered but did not survive the recent catastrophic flooding. The news has left a deep ache not just within her family, but in the hearts of all who followed their story and hoped for a miracle.

“To know Kyndall was to love her,” Devyn wrote, capturing the essence of a young woman who radiated joy, laughter, and warmth in every room she entered. Kyndall’s spirit was as bright as her smile, and she filled her world with the things she loved most: Taylor Swift, Gilmore Girls, Harry Styles, and a cheeseburger made just the way she liked it—mayo and pickles only. Those seemingly simple favorites now serve as heartfelt reminders of the life and light she brought into the world.

Though Kyndall’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy will live on through her sister Devyn, who promises to carry Kyndall’s memory in all that she does. With unwavering love and heartbreak in her words, Devyn said,

“I will ALWAYS be your big sis and your best friend.”

In this time of grief, Devyn finds a small measure of peace in the thought that Kyndall is now reunited with their father, wrapped in his eternal embrace. It is a comfort shared by so many who know that Kyndall’s presence in their lives will never truly be gone—only changed.

Devyn also expressed deep appreciation to all who have sent prayers, messages, and unwavering support throughout this unthinkable tragedy.

“Thank you, everyone, for the everlasting support and love you have consistently sent our family.”

Though still recovering from her own injuries, Devyn has been discharged from the hospital. The physical and emotional wounds remain fresh, but she is surrounded by her loved ones and grounded in her faith.

“My God saved me for a reason,” she wrote. “Although I don’t exactly understand what that is yet, I strive to be the best version of myself going forward—for my loved ones and my lost ones.”

As the community grieves alongside the Smith family, Devyn has asked for a simple tribute to her sister:

🎶 “Everyone play a Taylor Swift song tonight, so we can all sing along with Kyndall through spirit.”

Let us do just that—remember Kyndall with love, with laughter, and with music. Let us keep her spirit alive in every act of kindness, every song that lifts our hearts, and in the quiet moments when we think of the ones we’ve lost too soon.

Rest in peace, sweet Kyndall.

You will forever be a bright light in this world, and your memory will live on through those who loved you most.

 

ROBINSONVILLE, MS — A community is in shock and mourning after a deadly shooting claimed the life of one and critically injured two others—including a child—on the night of Friday, July 11, 2025, in Robinsonville, Mississippi. Now, **law enforcement is urgently searching for  Markello Braxton, who is wanted by the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office in connection with this horrific crime.

According to authorities, the incident unfolded during the evening hours in a quiet area of Robinsonville. When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered 30-year-old Nykerai Jude, who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead on-site. Two other victims—a 24-year-old man and a 6-year-old girl—were also struck by gunfire. Both were transported via air ambulance to a trauma center in critical condition.

This violent and senseless act has rocked the local community and left families shattered. The fact that a child was caught in the crossfire has heightened public outrage and urgency in the search for the suspect.

Markello Braxton is now wanted for murder and multiple counts of aggravated assault. The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office warns that he is armed and dangerous, and members of the public are urged not to approach him.

Braxton’s current whereabouts are unknown, and investigators are working around the clock to track him down. Tips from the public could prove critical in bringing justice to the victims and helping ensure no further harm is done.

If you have any information about the location of Markello Braxton, please call 911 immediately or contact the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking for continued prayers and support for the victims’ families during this incredibly difficult time. As the investigation unfolds, the community is being called upon to remain vigilant and united in the effort to hold the person responsible accountable for these heartbreaking crimes.DO NOT APPROACH – Markello Braxton is considered armed and dangerous.

 SEE SOMETHING? SAY SOMETHING. CALL 911.

 

With profound sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Donald J. Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, community leader, and agricultural icon. Don passed away at home in Turlock, California, surrounded by his loving family on July 3, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 95 and a half years old.

Born during the difficult days of the Great Depression on December 3, 1929, Don was the son of James H. “Cantaloupe” Smith and Rose M. Smith. His birth came during a time of great national hardship—his father often reminded him of the contrast between the prosperity of 1923, when Don’s sister Marian Smith Palmer was born, and the financial uncertainty of the year Don entered the world. Despite these early challenges, Don’s life would become a testament to perseverance, integrity, and purpose.

A lifelong resident of Turlock, Don graduated from Turlock High School in 1947, later attending Menlo College and graduating from the College of the Pacific (now University of the Pacific) in 1952 with a degree in Business. It was at college that he met the love of his life, Wendy Hammond. The two married in 1951 and spent 68 devoted years together before Wendy’s passing in 2019.

Though he once dreamed of opening a men’s clothing store after graduation, Don’s plans changed when his father became ill and he was called home to help with the family farm. There, Don discovered his true calling. He joined the Turlock Fruit Company, a family business founded in 1917, and never looked back. Partnering with his brother-in-law William “Bill” Palmer, Don helped lead the company for decades, building a legacy of quality, consistency, and trust that lives on through his son Stephen, grandson Alec, and grandson-in-law Neill Callis—the third and fourth generations proudly continuing the work he loved.

Don was a pioneer in the global produce trade, instrumental in expanding the export market for honeydew melons to countries including Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. His reputation in the industry was one of exceptional character—his word was his bond, and his commitment to excellence set a standard that will be remembered for generations.

While he achieved professional greatness, Don was also deeply committed to his community. He served 12 years on the Turlock Joint Union High School Board, 24 years on the Board of Regents for the University of the Pacific, and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church. His civic contributions included serving as President of the Turlock Noon Rotary Club, and membership in the Turlock Masonic Lodge F&AM, Stockton Scottish Rite, and the Aahmes Shriners.

Within the agricultural industry, Don was widely respected. He was a longtime member of the Western Growers Association, serving as its youngest-ever President in 1964, and also held leadership roles with the United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association.

Despite all his accolades and leadership positions, Don found his deepest joy in the simplest places—touring the fields at the Firebaugh ranch, watching crops grow, and overseeing the miracle of producing fresh food. He worked until just days before his passing, never tiring of the land he loved and the work that gave his life meaning. He didn’t care much for leisure travel; for Don, his vacation was a morning drive through the melon fields.

Don is survived by his three children:

• Stephen (Kathleen) Smith of Turlock, CA
• Sally (John) Robinson of Woodside, CA
• Stuart Smith of San Jose, CA

He is also survived by six grandchildren:

• Hilary (Neill) Callis of Turlock
• Alec (Hillary) Smith of Turlock
• Heidi (Tyler) Rosengren of Belvedere, CA
• Gretchen (Spencer) Rawles of San Francisco, CA
• Jamie Smith and Julian Smith of Valencia, Spain

And eight beloved great-grandchildren:

• Daniel and Elin Callis
• Owen and Beau Smith
• Annika and Aksel Rosengren
• Ainsley and Blythe Rawles

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife Wendy, his sister Marian Smith Palmer, and his cherished business partner and friend, Bill Palmer.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 1660 Arbor Way, Turlock, CA 95380.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to:

• The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163
• Shriners Children’s Northern California, Attn: Shriners Hospitals for Children, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394
• Or a charity of your choice

Donald J. Smith was not just a farmer. He was a builder of legacies, a quiet giant in California agriculture, a man whose life’s work fed families and whose values nurtured generations. His hands worked the land, but his heart shaped the lives of all who knew him.

Rest well, Don. Your harvest was abundant.

MILWAUKEE, WI — Urgent calls for help are sweeping across Wisconsin as an Amber Alert has been issued for 7-year-old Jamal D. White, who was reported missing on the evening of July 11, 2025. The alert was activated after authorities confirmed the child may have been abducted, and the public is being asked to remain vigilant and report any sightings or relevant information immediately.

Jamal was last seen around 7:00 p.m. near 6200 West Hustis Street in Milwaukee, a residential neighborhood on the city’s north side. According to investigators, Jamal was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts. He is described as standing 4 feet tall, weighing approximately 80 pounds, with a youthful build and appearance typical of his age.

Authorities believe Jamal may be traveling with a suspect in a white Jeep Renegade, though the license plate is currently unknown. Law enforcement agencies across the region are coordinating efforts to locate the vehicle and recover Jamal safely. Time is critical in cases like this, and authorities are urging the public to be on the lookout for both the missing child and the suspect vehicle.

While specific details about the circumstances of Jamal’s disappearance have not yet been made public, the issuance of an Amber Alert signals a credible threat to the child’s safety. Local, state, and national law enforcement are now involved in the search, and digital highway signs, news outlets, and emergency alert systems have all been activated to help spread the word.

Community members are asked to stay alert, share Jamal’s photo and description, and contact 911 immediately if they believe they’ve seen Jamal, the suspect vehicle, or have any information that could assist in the investigation.

Jamal’s family is devastated and pleading for the safe return of their son. As the search intensifies, the hope remains that swift action and public awareness will lead to a safe and speedy reunion.

Please help bring Jamal home.

If you have any information, call 911 immediately.

Every second counts.

 

With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the tragic passing of Adam Mihely, age 33, of Jefferson, Ohio, who lost his life on July 11, 2025, following a devastating motorcycle accident in Youngstown. The news of Adam’s untimely death has sent a wave of grief through his family, friends, and the entire Jefferson community, who now mourn the loss of a life taken far too soon.

Adam was a vibrant soul—full of energy, warmth, and compassion. Known for his adventurous spirit and love for the open road, he found great joy in riding his motorcycle. It was a passion that gave him freedom, clarity, and a deep connection with life. Those who knew him best remember his wide smile, his generous heart, and his unwavering loyalty to the people he cared about.

A proud native of Jefferson, Adam was deeply rooted in his hometown. He was the kind of person who never met a stranger, and his presence lit up any room he walked into. He was always the first to lend a helping hand, the first to make someone laugh, and the first to show up when it mattered. His friendships were strong, his love for family unmatched, and his impact on those around him profound.

While the details of the accident are still unfolding, the sense of loss is immeasurable. What remains clear is how deeply Adam touched the lives of so many. As his loved ones grapple with the reality of his absence, they are left with memories that speak volumes—stories of laughter, of loyalty, of strength, and of a man who lived with intensity and kindness.

Adam leaves behind a family who loved him dearly, friends who considered him a brother, and a community that feels emptier without him. In their grief, they also remember a man who embraced life fully and gave so much of himself to others. His memory will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched, and his legacy will be one of connection, courage, and love.

Arrangements and service details will be shared in the coming days. In the meantime, the community is invited to hold Adam’s family close in thought and prayer during this incredibly difficult time.

Rest in peace, Adam Mihely.

You were taken far too soon, but your spirit rides on.

You will never be forgotten.