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With broken hearts and unspeakable grief, we share the devastating news that Lila Bonner, age 9, was found deceased after being missing for several days following the catastrophic flood at Camp Mystic.

Lila was one of the precious young lives tragically lost in what was meant to be a joyful summer experience—one filled with laughter, friendship, and lasting memories. Her bright spirit, kind heart, and joyful presence brought light to everyone around her, and her absence now leaves an unimaginable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her.

This tragedy has shaken the community to its core, and the pain of such a loss is beyond words. Lila’s family is deeply grateful for the prayers, support, and love extended during this heartbreaking time, and they ask for continued privacy as they begin to process the unimaginable.

Lila’s life, though far too short, will be remembered with love, tenderness, and the joy she so freely gave. May her sweet soul rest in eternal peace.

With heavy hearts, we mourn the sudden and tragic loss of John “Jack” Louis Heineman IV, 23, of South Kingstown, Rhode Island, who passed away on July 10, 2025. His unexpected departure has left his family, friends, and the entire community in deep sorrow and disbelief.

Jack was known for his radiant smile, generous spirit, and the unmistakable warmth he brought into every room. A beloved member of the South Kingstown community, he was always ready to extend a helping hand, uplift others with his humor, and share his heart without hesitation. Whether through quiet acts of kindness or his vibrant presence, Jack made a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him.

A close family friend shared in a heartfelt Facebook post, “Jack’s loss leaves a hole in our hearts that will never be filled. His kindness and laughter will be missed by all who knew him.” These words echo the sentiments of so many who are grieving his loss.

At this time, funeral and memorial arrangements are still being finalized, and the family will share details as they become available. In the meantime, Jack’s loved ones have expressed their deep gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and prayers from friends, neighbors, and the wider community.

Jack’s light was extinguished far too soon, but the love he gave and the lives he touched will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace.

The Phillies mourn the passing of Lee Elia, former manager and lifelong contributor to the game of baseball, who died on July 9, 2025, just shy of his 88th birthday.

A native son of Philadelphia and graduate of Olney High School, Elia’s journey in professional baseball began when he signed with the Phillies in 1958 after attending the University of Delaware. Over the course of more than 50 years in the sport, Elia served the Phillies in nearly every capacity: as a minor league player, manager, scout, director of instruction, and most memorably, as the third base coach for the club’s 1980 World Series championship team. From the dugout to the front office, his baseball wisdom and steady presence left a lasting imprint on the organization.

As a player, Elia appeared in 95 Major League games with the Chicago White Sox (1966) and the Chicago Cubs (1968). He later managed the Cubs from 1982 to 1983 before taking the reins as Phillies manager from 1987 to 1988. Throughout his career, he was affiliated with 10 Major League organizations, yet his heart never strayed far from home—he was always, proudly, a Phillie.

Lee Elia will be remembered not only for his knowledge and love of the game but for his loyalty, leadership, and passion for mentoring young players. The Phillies family joins in mourning his loss and celebrating a life devoted to baseball.

We extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Priscilla, and to the entire Elia family during this time of sorrow.

Santa Ana, California, It is with profound sadness that the community of Santa Ana mourns the tragic and untimely passing of Nick Ortega, who lost his life in a car accident on July 9, 2025. Nick was just 39 years old—a life cut short far too soon.

Nick will be remembered as a kind, generous, and selfless man whose warmth touched everyone he encountered. A devoted husband and father, Nick poured his heart into his family. He was a rock for his loved ones, a dependable friend, and a steady presence whose quiet strength will be deeply missed.

He leaves behind his beloved wife and their four beautiful children, who were the center of his world. His love for them was evident in everything he did—from early morning routines and family dinners to coaching games and cheering from the sidelines. Nick worked tirelessly to provide, protect, and inspire, and his legacy lives on in the lives of his children and the countless hearts he touched.

As friends and family come together to grieve, they also come together to support. A heartfelt memorial is being planned to honor Nick’s life and celebrate the joy and love he brought into the world. During this difficult time, contributions are being collected to assist with funeral expenses and to help sustain his family through the overwhelming challenges that lie ahead.

Nick Ortega’s life was a testament to love, humility, and quiet courage. Though he is no longer physically with us, his memory will live on through stories shared, lessons remembered, and the enduring love of a community that will never forget him.

May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family find strength in the love that surrounds them.

Dallas, Texas, With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the passing of Mike Whitlock, who left this world far too soon on July 9, 2025, at the age of 35. A devoted husband, loving father, loyal son, and treasured friend, Mike’s life was a testament to kindness, strength, and unwavering love.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Mike was a man who made an unforgettable impression on everyone he met. His smile was warm, his laugh was contagious, and his presence brought comfort and joy. Whether you knew him as a neighbor, a coworker, a coach, or simply as “Mike,” you knew a man with integrity, compassion, and a genuine love for life.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Lindsey, and their beautiful children: Kayson, Abigail, Daylon, and Aubrey—each a living reflection of his love and legacy. He also leaves behind his devoted parents, Wendell and Renae Whitlock, who raised him with the values he carried so gracefully throughout his life.

Mike was a family man in every sense of the word. He cherished the simple moments—game nights at home, weekend outings, cheering on his kids at sports games, and sharing quiet conversations with Lindsey. He found his greatest joy in being present, in loving his family with every part of his being, and in giving selflessly to those around him.

Professionally and personally, Mike was a man of purpose. He worked hard, led by example, and always found time to lend a hand or share encouragement. His legacy will live on through the people he uplifted and the countless lives he touched with his unwavering support and love.

A visitation will be held on July 18, 2025, offering family, friends, and loved ones a chance to gather, grieve, and remember. A funeral service to celebrate Mike’s life and legacy will follow on July 19, 2025, both taking place in Dallas, Texas. Details on the exact times and location will be shared with the community in the coming days.

Though Mike’s time on earth was cut short, the impact of his life will be felt for generations to come. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, laughter, and faith—one that will forever be etched into the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

Rest peacefully, Mike. Your light continues to shine through the love you gave so freely and the memories we will carry with us always.

Little Rock, Arkansas, With broken hearts and profound sorrow, we remember the life of Alexia Paulina Valle, a beautiful young soul who departed this world far too soon on July 9, 2025, at the tender age of 16.

Born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas, Alexia was a bright light to everyone who knew her—full of energy, promise, and an undeniable kindness that left lasting impressions on her family, friends, and community. Whether through her gentle words, infectious laughter, or her compassion for others, Alexia made a difference. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a cherished presence whose spirit brought warmth and comfort to those around her.

Though her time on earth was brief, Alexia’s impact was profound. She loved deeply and lived fully, touching hearts through her school life, creative passions, and the strong bonds she shared with her loved ones. Her absence leaves a deep void, but her memory continues to inspire love, unity, and resilience.

A visitation in her honor will be held on July 14, 2025, giving family, friends, and members of the community an opportunity to gather, share memories, and offer support. This will be followed by a funeral service and burial, where Alexia will be laid to rest surrounded by those who held her dearest.

During this unimaginable time of grief, the Valle family welcomes the community’s prayers, love, and presence. Your support is a reminder that Alexia’s light continues to shine through the love and unity she inspired in all of us.

Though she is no longer here in body, Alexia Paulina Valle lives on in every tear shed, every story told, and every heart touched by her remarkable spirit. She will be missed more than words can express—but never forgotten.

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.”

CORTLANDVILLE, N.Y. — The Cortland County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal crash that occurred Monday night in Cortlandville.

According to officials, 41-year-old Jessica Peer was driving on Sears Road when her vehicle left the roadway and collided with a utility pole. Tragically, Peer was pronounced dead at the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office at (607) 758-5540.

This tragic loss comes just days after a separate fatal crash in neighboring Cayuga County, where a Groton man was killed on July 7 when his truck overturned on Route 90 near the Town of Summerhill.

Both incidents have left their respective communities mourning, as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the crashes.

MONTGOMERY, Ala.— A homicide investigation is now underway following a tragic shooting near Gibbs Village in Montgomery on Thursday afternoon.

Shortly before 2:45 p.m., multiple law enforcement units and medical responders were dispatched to the 1100 block of Air Base Boulevard. Upon arrival, they discovered a juvenile male who had suffered a gunshot wound.

Montgomery Police confirmed that the boy, whose name and exact age have not been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. A WSFA 12 News crew on-site reported that investigators appeared to be focusing their attention on a gray Honda sedan near the area.

At this time, no further details have been provided regarding a suspect or a potential motive. The investigation remains active as authorities work to piece together what led to the fatal shooting.

Police are asking anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling CrimeStoppers at 215-STOP, Secret Witness at 334-625-4000, or the Montgomery Police Department directly at 334-625-2831.

This tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, and authorities are urging the public’s help in finding answers.

DALLAS, Texas — Authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred on the 3100 block of Easter Avenue in Dallas on Wednesday, leaving one person critically injured.

According to police, officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area and arrived to find a victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. The individual was quickly transported to a nearby hospital and is currently listed in critical condition.

A crime scene has been established as investigators work to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. No suspect information has been released at this time.

The Dallas Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing.

EAGLE POINT, Ore. — The community of Eagle Point is grieving the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Zackary Bolf, who tragically passed away on July 4, 2025, following a devastating accident.

Zack was more than just a name — he was a son, a brother, a boyfriend, a loyal friend, and a bright light in the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His warmth, kindness, and unmistakable sense of humor touched countless hearts, and his presence brought joy to any room he entered.

Those who knew Zack remember his generous spirit, his laughter that could lift anyone’s mood, and his unwavering support for the people he cared about. His absence has created a profound and painful void, and his loss will be felt deeply for years to come.

As Eagle Point comes together in mourning, the love and memories shared with Zack remain a source of comfort. His legacy lives on in the stories, smiles, and hearts of those who were lucky enough to call him family or friend.

Details regarding memorial services will be shared with the community as they become available.