Blog

  • Remembering Isaiah Maxi: A Life of Strength, Heart, and Legacy in Kansas City, MO

    Remembering Isaiah Maxi: A Life of Strength, Heart, and Legacy in Kansas City, MO

    The Kansas City community is heartbroken over the sudden and unexpected loss of Isaiah Maxi, a beloved son, loyal friend, and former student-athlete at Fort Hays State University. Isaiah’s passing has sent waves of grief through all who knew him — not only for the life cut far too short, but for the vibrant spirit that touched so many along the way.

    Isaiah was known for his athletic talent, especially during his time as a standout on the football field. He brought passion, discipline, and strength to the game — and he did it with humility and grace. But beyond the athlete, Isaiah was deeply respected as a person of character, kindness, and unwavering support for those around him.

    He was the kind of friend who showed up — with words of encouragement, with a shoulder to lean on, or just his signature warm smile that made any day feel brighter. Isaiah had a way of lifting others up, even when he was facing challenges of his own. His energy was infectious, his faith was steadfast, and his loyalty knew no bounds.

    To his family, Isaiah was a source of pride and joy — a devoted son and brother who cherished his roots and always carried his loved ones close to his heart. To his teammates and classmates, he was an inspiration, someone who led by example and never gave up, even when life got hard.

    His passing has left an immeasurable void, but also a legacy that will live on — in every memory shared, every game played in his honor, and in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

    Memorial service details will be shared in the coming days, as family, friends, former teammates, and community members come together to celebrate a life that, while gone too soon, left a permanent mark on this world.

    Please keep the Maxi family in your thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable grief. Let us honor Isaiah by carrying forward the very qualities he lived by — determination, kindness, love, and resilience.

    Rest in peace, Isaiah. Your journey continues through all of us.

     

  • In Loving Memory of Carra Niverson — A Life Remembered in Omaha

    In Loving Memory of Carra Niverson — A Life Remembered in Omaha

    OMAHA, NE — The community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Carra Niverson, who tragically passed away on July 12, 2025, following a serious collision in Omaha. Carra was 63 years old.

    The accident, which remains under investigation by local authorities, resulted in critical injuries that ultimately proved fatal despite the efforts of emergency responders and medical staff. The exact cause and details surrounding the incident have not yet been publicly released, and officials continue working to understand what led to the tragic event.

    Carra Niverson was a beloved member of the Omaha community — a quiet force of kindness, integrity, and compassion. To neighbors, friends, and loved ones, Carra was known for her generous heart and a steadfast willingness to help those around her. Whether through simple acts of thoughtfulness or unwavering support during difficult times, Carra left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

    A lifelong resident of Nebraska, Carra lived a life marked by humility, strength, and love for family and community. Her passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those she held dear. Friends and relatives have begun sharing memories and messages of remembrance, recalling Carra’s gentle spirit, warm smile, and the many quiet ways she brought people together.

    As the investigation into the collision continues, the focus remains on honoring her life and the legacy she leaves behind. Plans for a memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days as family and friends come together to celebrate a life that, while cut short, was full of meaning and grace.

    We extend our deepest condolences to the Niverson family and to all who are grieving this painful loss. May Carra’s memory be a blessing and may her soul rest in peace.

     

  • AMBER ALERT: Urgent Search Underway for 7-Year-Old Jamal White Abducted at Gunpoint in Milwaukee

    AMBER ALERT: Urgent Search Underway for 7-Year-Old Jamal White Abducted at Gunpoint in Milwaukee

    MILWAUKEE, WI — An Amber Alert has been issued for 7-year-old Jamal D. White, who was abducted at gunpoint on the evening of Thursday, July 11, 2025, sending shockwaves through the Milwaukee community and beyond.

    According to the Milwaukee Police Department, Jamal was last seen at approximately 7:00 p.m. near North 61st Street and West Hustis Street, a residential area on the city’s north side. Witnesses report that the child was forcibly taken by an unidentified suspect and placed into a white Jeep Renegade under terrifying circumstances.

    The suspect is described as wearing a black hoodie, a black face mask, and was armed with a handgun at the time of the abduction. No license plate has yet been confirmed for the vehicle, which remains at the center of the ongoing search.

    Jamal White is described as:

    •Age: 7 years old

    •Height: 4 feet tall

    •Weight: Approximately 80 pounds

    •Hair: Short black hair

    •Eyes: Brown

    •Last Seen Wearing: A white T-shirt and black shorts

    The abduction is being treated as an extremely dangerous and urgent situation, with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies now collaborating in the race to find Jamal and bring him home safely.

    Community members are being asked to stay vigilant and report any sightings of Jamal or the suspect vehicle immediately. Do not approach the suspect, as he is considered armed and dangerous.

    If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please call 911 or contact the Milwaukee Police Department right away.

    This is every family’s worst nightmare. As authorities continue to search for Jamal, the community is rallying together, praying for his safe return and offering support to his devastated family.

    Please share Jamal’s photo and details to help widen the search. Every minute counts.

     

  • In Loving Memory of Austin Gibbons — A Life That Lit Up the World

    In Loving Memory of Austin Gibbons — A Life That Lit Up the World

    With heavy hearts and immeasurable sorrow, we announce the passing of Austin Gibbons — a beloved son, a cherished brother, a loyal friend, and a radiant soul whose presence left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

    Austin’s life, though tragically cut short, was a powerful testament to compassion, resilience, and love. He had a heart that beat with kindness, a spirit full of energy and joy, and a smile that could brighten even the darkest days. His laughter was contagious, his words thoughtful, and his presence — simply unforgettable.

    Whether he was lifting someone up, sharing an inside joke, or offering his unwavering support, Austin had a unique gift for making people feel seen, valued, and truly loved. He never let anyone walk alone — not in their sorrow, nor in their triumphs. He was there for birthdays, for broken hearts, for silly moments and serious talks. He was the kind of person who made life feel bigger and better just by being in it.

    To his family, Austin was a cornerstone — a loving son whose devotion never wavered, a sibling who protected, joked with, and cared deeply for his brothers and sisters. To his friends, he was family — loyal to the core, fiercely supportive, and always ready to show up when it mattered most.

    His passions, whether they lay in music, sports, or simply the joy of being outdoors, were fueled by his zest for life and his desire to experience the world with open arms. Austin’s light shone brightly, and even now, that light will continue to live on — in every memory, every story, and every heart he touched.

    As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the profound impact of his life. Austin taught us to love harder, laugh louder, and be present with one another. Though we are left with grief too deep for words, we are also left with the gift of having known him — and that is something we will carry with us forever.

    To know Austin Gibbons was to love him, and to lose him is a heartbreak we will carry always.

    Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this unimaginable loss. Details of a memorial service and opportunities to honor Austin’s legacy will be shared in the coming days.

    Rest peacefully, Austin. Your light lives on in us all.

     

  • Waterbury Mourns the Tragic Loss of 17-Year-Old Carizma Fox in Early Morning Shooting

    Waterbury Mourns the Tragic Loss of 17-Year-Old Carizma Fox in Early Morning Shooting

    WATERBURY, CT — A wave of grief and shock has struck the city of Waterbury following the tragic death of 17-year-old Carizma Fox, who was fatally shot in the early hours of Friday morning, July 12, 2025.

    According to authorities, Waterbury police officers were dispatched at approximately 2:48 a.m. to 185 Willow Street in response to reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers found a teenage girl suffering from a gunshot wound. She was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where, despite the efforts of medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries.

    The victim has been officially identified as Carizma Fox, a beloved student at Enlightenment School, a local alternative school within the Waterbury Public Schools system. Superintendent Dr. Darren Schwartz confirmed her identity in a statement, offering condolences and support to the school community as they grapple with the devastating loss.

    The Waterbury Police Department has launched a homicide investigation and believes that an altercation or incident may have occurred on the street prior to the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been made, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

    Carizma’s untimely death has left her family, classmates, and the broader community heartbroken. Described by those who knew her as a spirited and resilient young woman, Carizma had dreams, talents, and a life full of potential ahead of her—now senselessly stolen by violence.

    Community members are already beginning to organize vigils and support efforts for her family. Counselors and grief support services have been made available at Enlightenment School to help students and staff navigate this profound loss.

    As Waterbury faces yet another act of gun violence, the tragedy of Carizma Fox serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for community unity, prevention, and justice.

    Anyone with information is urged to contact the Waterbury Police Department. Tips can also be submitted anonymously.

    Let us honor Carizma’s memory not only with our grief, but with action—supporting her family, comforting one another, and demanding safer futures for all our youth.

    Rest in peace, Carizma. Your name and light will not be forgotten.

     

  • In Loving Memory of Jack Wilson — A Life of Joy, Friendship, and Adventure Gone Too Soon

    In Loving Memory of Jack Wilson — A Life of Joy, Friendship, and Adventure Gone Too Soon

    The state of Pennsylvania is grieving the heartbreaking and sudden loss of Jack Wilson, who tragically passed away in a fatal motorcycle accident. His passing has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving behind a void that can never truly be filled.

    Jack was a man who lived life to the fullest. Known for his larger-than-life personality, infectious laughter, and unshakable positivity, he had a way of lighting up every room he entered. Whether he was out on the open road, spending time with friends, or simply making someone’s day brighter, Jack’s presence was a gift to those who knew him.

    At the heart of Jack’s life was his unwavering love for his partner, Nicole Evans. The two shared a deep and genuine bond filled with love, laughter, and a shared thirst for adventure. Their relationship was one that inspired others—a testament to devotion, partnership, and the joy of finding your person.

    Jack was also a loyal friend, the kind of person who would drop everything to help someone in need. He had a circle of close companions who he considered family, and his absence is felt deeply by every one of them. From spontaneous road trips to late-night conversations, Jack created memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

    His passion for motorcycles wasn’t just a hobby—it was a part of his identity. The freedom of the ride, the wind on his face, the camaraderie among fellow bikers—these were things Jack loved dearly. That passion ultimately became part of the tragedy that took him, but it’s also part of the legacy he leaves behind: to live boldly, love fiercely, and never take a single moment for granted.

    As friends and family gather to celebrate Jack’s life, they do so with heavy hearts but also with deep gratitude—for the time they had, for the memories made, and for the lessons Jack taught simply by being himself. He reminded us to laugh louder, hug tighter, and chase every sunset like it’s your last.

    A memorial ride and celebration of life will be planned in Jack’s honor, with details to be announced in the coming days. His loved ones ask the community to keep Nicole, his family, and all who knew him in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

    Ride free, Jack. Your journey may have ended here, but your spirit continues down every winding road we travel.

     

  • Remembering Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal — A Shining Light Gone Too Soon

    Remembering Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal — A Shining Light Gone Too Soon

    A devastating update has touched the hearts of the Alamo Heights community and beyond, as the family of Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal confirms that their beloved daughter was one of the young girls tragically swept away in the catastrophic July 4th floods along the Guadalupe River.

    At just 8 years old, Kellyanne’s time on earth was brief—but her impact, her spirit, and her joy were immeasurable.

    A proud camper at Camp Mystic, Kellyanne was among the many brave, beautiful souls caught in the unimaginable storm that changed lives forever. Her family clung to hope for days, and now they must face the unthinkable reality: that their daughter, their sunshine, is no longer with them.

    Described by loved ones as kind, fearless, full of faith, and full of light, Kellyanne brought warmth and happiness wherever she went. Whether it was her infectious laugh, her boundless curiosity, or her generous heart, Kellyanne had a way of making everyone feel seen and loved. She was the kind of child who lit up a room just by being in it.

    To honor her life and ensure that her spirit continues to shine, the Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation has been established by her family. The foundation will reflect everything she stood for—compassion, kindness, faith, and giving—turning sorrow into service and carrying forward the legacy of a little girl who meant the world to so many.

    The heartbreak of this tragedy has rippled across the state of Texas, as more young lives lost in the floods are confirmed. The pain is unbearable, and yet, communities like Alamo Heights are drawing strength from each other and from the memory of children like Kellyanne, whose joy will never be forgotten.

    To the Lytal family: Our hearts are broken with yours. We send our deepest love, endless prayers, and unwavering support as you walk through the hardest days a family can face. Kellyanne’s story has touched the world. Her light, though gone from sight, continues to glow in every life she touched.

    Please consider honoring Kellyanne’s memory with a moment of silence, a kind act, or a contribution to her memorial foundation. Let us rally together and hold up this family with the love and grace they so deeply need.

    Rest in heaven, sweet Kellyanne. You will always be our river of light.

     

  • In Loving Memory of Barry ‘Bazza’ Thompson – A Club Legend, A Gentle Soul, A Life Well Played

    In Loving Memory of Barry ‘Bazza’ Thompson – A Club Legend, A Gentle Soul, A Life Well Played

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the passing of a cherished friend and club member, Barry ‘Bazza’ Thompson, who left us this week in his 91st year. Affectionately known to all simply as “Bazz,” he was a true gentleman, a beloved icon of our club, and a shining example of how to live a life full of joy, friendship, and integrity.

    Bazz was more than just a member – he was the very soul of the course. A stalwart of the club, he was often seen teeing off well into his 80s, his presence a testament to both his enduring love of the game and his indomitable spirit. Whether rain or shine, you could always count on Bazz to show up with a twinkle in his eye, ready to share a laugh, tell a great story, or offer a helping hand.

    Those lucky enough to know Barry knew him as a man of great character, with a warm heart and a quick wit. His sense of humor was legendary, his tales always colorful, and his friendship truly unforgettable. For many of us, Bazz wasn’t just a fellow golfer – he was part of the family. His legacy is carried not only through the rounds he played, but in the countless memories, deep laughs, and quiet moments shared over the years.

    As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the incredible life he led. We invite all who knew Bazz to take a moment to reflect on the joy he brought into our lives—perhaps over a round of golf, a friendly toast at the clubhouse, or simply in remembering a story that still makes you smile.

    To Heidi, Kelly, and the entire Thompson family, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. May you find comfort in knowing just how deeply Bazz was loved by all of us and how greatly his absence will be felt.

    Rest peacefully, dear Bazz. May your fairways be always green, your swing forever smooth, and the tailwind at your back. You’ll always be with us—in spirit, in memory, and in every perfectly struck ball.

    Forever our friend. Forever a legend.

     

  • In Loving Memory of Supervisory Public Safety Telecommunicator Shannon (Quinn) Thonus

    In Loving Memory of Supervisory Public Safety Telecommunicator Shannon (Quinn) Thonus

    Sussex County, NJ — Sheriff Michael F. Strada and the entire Sussex County Sheriff’s Office are heartbroken to share the passing of Supervisory Public Safety Telecommunicator Shannon (Quinn) Thonus, who passed away following a courageous battle with cancer. Her loss is deeply felt across the first responder community, where Shannon was known not only for her professionalism and leadership but for the kindness, strength, and compassion she extended to everyone she served.

    Shannon was a proud native of Sandyston, where she grew up surrounded by family and community. She later married the love of her life, Jim Thonus, and together they raised two beautiful children who were the center of her world. Her commitment to her family was only rivaled by her dedication to public service—a calling she fulfilled with integrity and heart.

    Shannon’s career in public safety communications began at the Newton Police Department, where she served as a dispatcher. In 2016, she joined the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office 911 Communications Center as a Public Safety Telecommunicator, quickly proving herself to be a vital asset. Her work ethic, calm demeanor under pressure, and unwavering sense of duty led to her promotion to Senior Public Safety Telecommunicator in 2020, and just two years later, to Supervisory Public Safety Telecommunicator.

    Over the course of her career, Shannon earned the respect and admiration of her peers and first responders throughout the county. Her contributions were not only measured in years of service but in lives saved—including 10 documented CPR saves, a testament to her readiness, expertise, and care. She was honored with numerous awards and recognitions during her time at the Communications Center, yet remained humble, always focused on helping others.

    To know Shannon was to witness grace under pressure, steady leadership, and deep compassion for the people and community she served. Whether mentoring a new dispatcher or coordinating emergency response with urgency and precision, Shannon was a pillar of strength behind the scenes of Sussex County’s public safety efforts.

    Sheriff Michael F. Strada shared this tribute:

    “Shannon was a true leader with commitment and integrity. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her. She will be missed by many, but never forgotten.”

    In this time of mourning, we extend our deepest condolences to the Thonus family, especially to her children, who were the light of her life. We ask the community to join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

    Shannon’s life and legacy will continue to echo through the voices of the countless people she helped, the colleagues she mentored, and the family she so dearly loved. She will forever be remembered as a dedicated first responder, a loving wife and mother, and a beacon of strength in the most critical moments.

    Rest in peace, Shannon. Your service, your love, and your legacy will live on.

     

  • In Loving Memory of Zach Raney, 19 — A Dedicated First Responder Gone Too Soon

    In Loving Memory of Zach Raney, 19 — A Dedicated First Responder Gone Too Soon

    Haywood, KY — July 11, 2025 — The tight-knit community of Barren County is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of Zach Raney, a 19-year-old motorcyclist who tragically lost his life in a crash Friday afternoon in Haywood. The fatal incident was confirmed by Barren County Coroner Tim Gibson, and while the details of the crash are still under investigation by Kentucky State Police, the grief surrounding Zach’s passing is already profoundly felt.

    Zach was far more than a young man with dreams—he was already living his calling. A dedicated staff member of Barren-Metcalfe EMS, and a volunteer with the Haywood Fire Department, Zach served his community with courage, heart, and humility. In a time when few step forward to protect and care for others, Zach did so willingly and selflessly. His service was not just a job or an obligation—it was a reflection of his character.

    Friends and colleagues describe Zach as a bright light, always the first to show up, lend a hand, and lift others’ spirits. Whether responding to emergencies or spending time around the firehouse, he brought a sense of calm, determination, and humor that made him truly beloved among his peers.

    At just 19 years old, Zach had already made an impact that many spend decades trying to achieve. He was known for his dedication, quick smile, and deep love for his community. His loss is being felt not only by his family and friends, but by the entire network of first responders and emergency personnel who worked alongside him and admired his heart and potential.

    As the Kentucky State Police continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, the community is uniting in support of the Raney family and all those affected. First responder agencies from around the region have expressed their condolences and are offering support during this incredibly difficult time.

    Memorial details and services to honor Zach’s life will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, community members are encouraged to show their support for Zach’s family and fellow first responders in any way they can—whether through messages of condolence, acts of kindness, or simply pausing to honor a life lived in service to others.

    This is a devastating loss, and we are reminded once again of the risks our first responders face every day, and the preciousness of the lives they live with such integrity and purpose.

    Rest in peace, Zach Raney. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.