Blog

With profound sorrow and the deepest of love, we remember and honor the life of Ashlee Gumm, whose passing has left a void that words can scarcely express. A light in every room, Ashlee was the embodiment of compassion, joy, and quiet strength — a soul whose presence touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Ashlee’s warmth radiated through every smile she shared, every kind word she offered, and every moment she gave selflessly to others. Whether offering comfort to a friend in need or lifting spirits with her gentle humor, Ashlee had a way of making people feel truly seen and genuinely loved.

She was a daughter, a friend, a confidant, and so much more — a beacon of kindness in a world that so often needs it. Her love was steady and unconditional, her laughter infectious, and her heart one of the purest. To know Ashlee was to know sincerity, grace, and a quiet kind of courage that inspired those around her.

Though her time with us was far too short, the impact of her life remains etched in the hearts of all who knew her. In the memories we hold close, in the stories we share, and in the love she left behind, Ashlee’s spirit continues to live on.

As we grieve her loss, we also give thanks for the immeasurable gift of her presence in our lives. May her memory be a source of comfort and may we honor her by living with the same compassion, strength, and kindness she so effortlessly gave.

Rest gently, Ashlee Gumm. You will forever be loved. You will forever be missed.

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we gather in remembrance of a beautiful soul, Brylie Cox. A bright light in our small community, Brylie touched the lives of everyone she met with her radiant smile, gentle spirit, and the kind of joy that could light up even the darkest room.

Brylie was more than just a name — she was a presence. Whether it was her laugh echoing through a hallway, her quiet acts of kindness, or the warmth she brought to every conversation, Brylie had a rare and beautiful gift of making others feel seen, heard, and loved. She carried herself with grace and humility far beyond her years, always offering a helping hand and a kind word wherever she went.

Her love for life was evident in everything she did — from her close-knit friendships and deep family bonds to her passions, her faith, and her dreams for the future. Though her time with us was far too short, the impact she made will remain for a lifetime.

As we mourn this heartbreaking loss, we also celebrate the beautiful life Brylie lived — a life filled with compassion, courage, and love. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her, in the stories we share, and in the kindness we continue in her name.

To her family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss: may you find strength in each other, and peace in the enduring light of Brylie’s memory.

Rest peacefully, Brylie. You will never be forgotten.

Lexington, KY — A wave of sorrow has swept through the Lexington community following a heartbreaking tragedy at Richmond Road Baptist Church, where a deadly shooting claimed the lives of two cherished members of the congregation: Beverly “Gumm” Gum, 72, and Christina Combs, 32.

The shooting, which occurred during a peaceful church gathering, has left the city in mourning and raised questions about safety in even the most sacred of spaces. What should have been a quiet day of worship and fellowship turned into a nightmare — one that has forever altered the lives of those who call Richmond Road Baptist Church home.

Beverly “Gumm” Gum, affectionately known simply as “Gumm,” was a beloved elder in the congregation. Known for her warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith, she was a constant source of encouragement and grace to everyone who crossed her path. Gumm had been part of the church for decades and was considered a pillar of the community — a woman whose presence filled rooms with peace and whose absence leaves an aching void.

Christina Combs, just 32, was a vibrant and devoted member of the church community, often volunteering her time and energy to youth programs and outreach events. She was passionate, compassionate, and deeply rooted in her faith. Friends remember her as someone who gave selflessly, lived joyfully, and loved wholeheartedly.

Both women were more than names on a list — they were friends, family, mentors, and inspirations to those around them. Their loss is not just felt within the walls of the church but throughout Lexington, where their impact reached far beyond Sunday services.

The Richmond Road Baptist Church has since become a site of mourning and prayer, with community members gathering for vigils, support, and healing. Pastors and counselors are working closely with families and parishioners to provide spiritual and emotional support in the wake of the trauma.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community remains focused on remembering the lives that were taken too soon. In honor of Gumm and Christina, Richmond Road Baptist Church plans to hold a memorial service open to the public, inviting all who were touched by their kindness and faith to come together in tribute.

In a time of unimaginable pain, Lexington stands united in grief — but also in love. The legacies of Beverly “Gumm” Gum and Christina Combs will continue to shine through the lives they touched, the faith they lived, and the community that now carries their memory forward.

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we share the devastating news that Kellyanne Lytal, one of the earliest reported missing campers over the July 4th holiday, has been found deceased.

Kellyanne’s disappearance sparked an urgent and widespread search effort that brought together law enforcement, rescue teams, volunteers, and loved ones desperate for answers. As the days stretched on, hope remained — but so did the heartbreak of the unknown. Tragically, that hope has now been replaced with grief.

Authorities have not yet released full details surrounding the circumstances of her death, and the investigation remains ongoing. What is certain, however, is the magnitude of this loss to those who knew and loved Kellyanne.

She was more than a name in a news report — she was a daughter, a friend, a bright light with a love for nature and a zest for life. Her absence leaves a silence that words cannot fill, and her memory will forever be held close by all who were lucky enough to share in her journey.

The Lytal family asks for privacy as they navigate this unimaginable pain and begin the process of saying goodbye to their beloved Kellyanne.

May her spirit rest in peace, and may those who grieve her loss find strength in the memories she leaves behind.

Lexington, KY — A devastating tragedy unfolded at Richmond Road Baptist Church as a shooting during a church gathering claimed the lives of three individuals and left several others injured. Authorities have now identified the suspected gunman as Guy E. House, a 38-year-old male, who is believed to have opened fire during the service in what officials are calling one of the most heartbreaking acts of violence in the city’s recent memory.

Among the deceased are Beverly “Gumm” Gum, 72, and Christina Combs, 32 — both beloved members of the Richmond Road Baptist Church congregation. The identity of the third deceased victim has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

The shooting occurred during what was described as a peaceful church function, sending attendees into chaos and disbelief as the sound of gunfire echoed through the sanctuary. First responders arrived on the scene quickly, securing the area and providing aid to the wounded. Multiple victims were transported to local hospitals with varying degrees of injuries.

According to law enforcement sources, Guy E. House was known to some within the community, though a motive has not yet been publicly confirmed. Investigators are actively piecing together what led to the horrific attack and have not ruled out personal or mental health-related factors.

“This is a deeply painful day for Lexington,” said a spokesperson for the Lexington Police Department. “Our hearts are broken for the families of the victims, for the congregation, and for the entire community that is reeling from this senseless act of violence.”

Counseling services are being offered to survivors, church members, and community residents as the city begins the difficult process of healing from the trauma.

Richmond Road Baptist Church, a longtime cornerstone of the community, is now the site of candles, flowers, and prayers as mourners gather to remember those lost and to find comfort in each other.

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident or the suspect’s background to come forward as the investigation remains active and ongoing.

As Lexington grieves, the memories of Beverly Gumm, Christina Combs, and the unnamed third victim will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. The city stands united in mourning — and in the pursuit of justice and healing.

Atlanta, GA — The city of Atlanta is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of Billy McDonald, affectionately known to many as “Lul DaBaby”, who passed away on June 13, 2025. Billy was a beloved member of the community, a hardworking entrepreneur, and a beacon of strength, loyalty, and ambition to all who knew him.

Billy was the proud Owner and Operator of RKB Trucking & Moving Service LLC, a business he built from the ground up with dedication and determination. Through his company, he not only provided dependable service to countless households and businesses across the Atlanta area, but he also inspired many young men and women with his example of Black excellence, resilience, and self-made success. He often spoke about turning trials into triumph and made it his mission to create opportunities not just for himself, but for those around him.

Known to friends and family as “Lul DaBaby,” Billy’s nickname carried with it the love and warmth he brought to every room he entered. His smile was infectious, his laugh unforgettable, and his loyalty unmatched. Whether you knew him from childhood, crossed paths through business, or met him just once, it was clear that Billy carried a presence that left a lasting impression. He was the type of man who would give his last to help a friend, show up for his community, and still keep grinding with grace and hustle.

Behind the businessman and public personality was a deeply loving man — a son, a brother, a father, a partner, and a friend. He was someone whose family meant everything to him, and he wore his love proudly. Those closest to Billy describe him as a protector, a provider, and a soul who gave endlessly of himself, even when carrying burdens few could see.

The circumstances surrounding his passing have left many in shock and sorrow, as a vibrant life was cut far too short. The pain of losing Billy is immeasurable, not only to his family and friends but to the countless lives he touched through his presence, his work, and his unwavering commitment to doing better and being better — for himself and for others.

As Atlanta comes together to grieve, there is also a deep sense of pride in the legacy Billy leaves behind. He showed what it meant to rise up, to take risks, and to build something of your own. He turned a vision into reality and, in doing so, encouraged others to do the same. In every mile he drove, every home he helped move, every life he inspired — his legacy lives on.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to be made in Billy McDonald’s memory to local youth mentoring programs and small business development organizations in Atlanta — causes that reflect the heart of who he was.

Rest in peace, Billy McDonald — Lul DaBaby. You were a giant in your community, and your light will never fade. You may be gone from this world, but your presence, impact, and spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved you.

Bernice, LA — A shocking and deeply tragic incident has shaken the quiet town of Bernice after a father was found dead and his son arrested following a deadly hatchet attack.

On the morning of Saturday, July 12, 2025, deputies with the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office (UPSO) responded to a distressing call reporting a possible stabbing at the Bernice Villa Apartments, located at 115 W. 4th Street. Upon entering the residence, authorities discovered the lifeless body of 71-year-old Delmer Watts Sr., who had suffered fatal injuries consistent with a violent assault.

The UPSO Criminal Investigations Division (CID) responded swiftly and launched a full investigation. Evidence gathered at the scene indicated that Mr. Watts had likely been deceased for several hours before deputies were contacted.

Investigators quickly identified the victim’s son, 36-year-old Delmer Watts Jr., as the prime suspect. Watts Jr., who remained at the scene, was taken into custody without incident. Authorities recovered a hatchet believed to be the weapon used in the attack, along with additional evidence directly linking him to the crime.

Officials noted that Watts Jr. appeared to be under the influence at the time of questioning and had a known history of conflict with his father — a longstanding family tension that may have escalated into this fatal encounter.

Delmer Watts Jr. has been formally charged with First-Degree Murder and booked into the Union Parish Detention Center. The case remains under active investigation as detectives work to determine the full circumstances leading up to the deadly assault.

The community of Bernice is left in disbelief, mourning the violent loss of a longtime resident and grappling with the tragedy of a family torn apart. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office as they continue to pursue justice in this heartbreaking case.

The community of Mexico, Missouri is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Kristain Pritchett, aged 22, who tragically passed away in a head-on crash early Saturday morning.

According to authorities, the collision occurred when another vehicle crossed the center line, resulting in a devastating impact. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, Kristain succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

Kristain’s family has been notified, and they, along with countless friends and loved ones, are left grieving the sudden and unimaginable loss. Known for their kind spirit and the joy they brought to those around them, Kristain’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing them.

As the community comes together to support the Pritchett family, there is a shared sense of sorrow and reflection over a young life taken far too soon.

The crash remains under investigation, and further details are expected to be released in the coming days.

Kristain Pritchett will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly honored by all whose lives they touched.

With profound sorrow, we share the passing of Maggie Wilkes of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, who departed this life on July 11, 2025, at the age of 39. Her loss leaves a deep and aching void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Maggie will be forever remembered for her kind heart, radiant spirit, and unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted wife, a caring mother, and a source of strength and grace to those around her. Whether through her gentle presence or the quiet ways she supported others, Maggie touched countless lives with compassion and warmth.

She is survived by her loving husband, her beloved children, and many family members who will continue to cherish her memory and the lasting legacy of love she leaves behind.

A funeral service honoring Maggie’s life will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, to grieve, and to celebrate the beautiful life she lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation or to a charity of your choice, in Maggie’s honor — a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much of herself to others.

Rest in peace, Maggie Wilkes. You will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Barry Stockstill, 64, of Picayune, Mississippi, who tragically lost his life in a vehicle accident on Saturday morning.

The crash occurred around 10 a.m. on Interstate 59 in St. Tammany Parish, when Barry’s vehicle veered off the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned. Despite wearing a seatbelt, he sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger in the vehicle survived the crash but suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The Louisiana State Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the accident.

Barry Stockstill will be remembered by family, friends, and the Picayune community as a kind-hearted and steady presence. His passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will be cherished in the stories, love, and impact he leaves behind.

As loved ones grieve this sudden and heartbreaking loss, they ask for continued prayers, support, and privacy during this difficult time.