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GADSDEN, AL — With deep sorrow, the community of Gadsden mourns the passing of Ralph Burke, who departed this life on June 3, 2025, at the age of 65. A man of intellect, compassion, and unwavering dedication to education and service, Ralph’s passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Ralph Burke was more than a resident of Gadsden — he was a pillar of the community. A proud graduate of Plainview High School, Ralph laid the foundation for a life centered around learning, leadership, and public service. His academic journey would later take him to Jacksonville State University, where his passion for education took root, and to Peabody College at Vanderbilt University, where he earned a degree in Higher Education Administration.

A lifelong advocate for learning and personal growth, Ralph returned to Jacksonville State University, not only as an alumnus but as a dedicated member of the university’s staff. Over the years, he played a key role in shaping the academic experience of countless students. Whether through mentorship, guidance, or a simple encouraging word, Ralph left an indelible mark on the institution and the people it serves. His commitment to the advancement of education and his belief in the power of knowledge were unwavering.

Outside of academia, Ralph was a man of humility, humor, and warmth. Those who knew him best describe him as thoughtful and genuine—someone who could light up a room with his kind demeanor and quiet wisdom. He believed in the value of hard work, the strength of community, and the importance of lifting others up.

Ralph was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Joy Downey Burke. Their marriage was a beautiful example of love, partnership, and mutual respect. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, learning, and shared purpose. Joy stood by Ralph’s side through every season of life, and her love and support were sources of strength that Ralph cherished deeply.

As news of his passing spreads, tributes have poured in from former students, colleagues, and friends whose lives Ralph touched in countless ways. Many remember him for his gentle presence, his fierce belief in the potential of others, and the quiet but powerful legacy he leaves behind.

Though his earthly journey has come to a close, the impact Ralph Burke made will continue to resonate for generations to come. His life was a testament to the importance of education, the power of kindness, and the beauty of living with intention and integrity.

The Burke family has asked for privacy as they navigate this time of grief and remembrance. Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be shared with the community in the coming days.

Ralph Burke will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
May he rest in peace, and may his life continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps. 🕊️

Westport, CT –The Westport community and all who knew Slava Leykind are mourning the heartbreaking and untimely loss of a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and leader. Slava passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 43, following complications from a demanding mountain endurance event earlier in the week. His death has left a deep and painful void in the lives of his family, friends, and colleagues, and in the broader community that admired his integrity, drive, and warmth.

Born in Minsk, USSR, in 1982, Slava emigrated with his family to Minneapolis in 1988, in search of a better life and greater opportunity. That spirit of determination would become a defining trait throughout his life.

A graduate of The Blake School in Minneapolis (Class of 2000), Slava went on to earn his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, graduating in 2004 with a dual focus through the Tauber Manufacturing Institute. His academic and leadership excellence set the stage for a career marked by innovation, excellence, and an unrelenting work ethic.

Slava began his professional journey at General Mills, but soon found his calling in investment banking. In 2006, he joined Sawaya Segalas, a boutique investment bank specializing in consumer M&A. Through his unmatched work ethic, strategic insight, and deep integrity, he rose to become one of the firm’s three seniormost partners. After Sawaya Partners was acquired by Canaccord Genuity in 2021, Slava was appointed Co-Head of U.S. Consumer Investment Banking, where he continued to lead with distinction and humility, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

Yet, for all of his professional accomplishments, it was his family that brought him the greatest pride and fulfillment. Slava shared more than 20 years of unwavering partnership and love with his wife, Amy Keller Leykind, building a beautiful life together filled with joy, laughter, and shared dreams. He was the devoted and loving father of Charlotte, Eloise, and Jonah, whose lives he filled with care, presence, and adventure. He was their rock, their teacher, and their greatest champion.

Slava was the treasured son of Art and Nelly Leykind, and a proud brother to Gene and Max Leykind. He deeply valued his extended family, including his parents-in-law Bonnie and Alex Keller, sister-in-law Nina Leykind, and his adored nieces and nephews — Deia, Coby, Jackson, Esme, and Blake.

Those closest to Slava remember a man of immense character — calm, generous, brilliant, and grounded. He carried himself with humility, approached life with gratitude, and impacted others through quiet strength and compassionate leadership. Whether in the boardroom, on the trails, or at home with his family, Slava led by example, showing those around him how to live with courage and heart.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 8 at 11:00 a.m. at Temple Israel in Westport, CT. A private burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

Though his life ended far too soon, Slava Leykind’s legacy will endure — in the lives of his children, in the love of his family, and in the countless people he inspired along the way. His life was a testament to the power of purpose, perseverance, and love.

May his memory be a blessing.

 

A wave of violence gripped Toledo, Ohio over the Fourth of July holiday, leaving four people dead and two others injured in a 24-hour period. Toledo Police responded to multiple fatal incidents between July 4 and the early hours of July 5, marking one of the deadliest stretches the city has seen in recent years.

Authorities and local leaders are now pleading for calm as the community reels from the devastation.

Incident Timeline:

• July 4, 3:30 a.m. —
  Marcus White, 35, was fatally stabbed, becoming the first victim of the holiday weekend. The incident led to the arrest of Paris Johnson, also 35, who now faces a murder charge. Police say the investigation into the motive is ongoing.
• July 4, 4:45 p.m. —
  Jaycieon Bennett, a 17-year-old teenager, was shot and killed while inside a vehicle on Baden Street near South Avenue. Another occupant in the vehicle was also shot but is expected to recover. No arrests have been made.
• July 5, 12:17 a.m. —
  Salvador Ruiz, 20, was fatally shot near Platt and 1st Street. A second person inside the vehicle with Ruiz was not harmed. Investigators have not named any suspects, and no one is currently in custody.
• July 5, 12:20 a.m. —
  Just minutes after the Ruiz shooting, Amir Thomas-Clair, 20, was shot while riding in a vehicle that crashed on Nevada Street. He died at the scene. Another individual in the vehicle was critically injured and remains hospitalized. Police have not made any arrests.

A City Shaken by Violence

The spate of deadly incidents marks the first time since December 2022 that four homicides have occurred in Toledo within a two-day span, according to homicide records maintained by 13 Action News.

Toledo Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify suspects or motives in these cases. Detectives are actively working all four investigations, but the lack of immediate arrests in three of the incidents underscores the challenges police face.

Community members and anti-violence advocates have expressed deep concern over the rising toll of gun violence and violent crime in the city. Many are calling for expanded youth programs, mental health resources, and neighborhood-based intervention efforts to address the root causes.

Call for Action

Anyone with information about any of the incidents is encouraged to contact Toledo Police or leave anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

As families grieve and neighborhoods struggle to make sense of the violence, the city of Toledo finds itself once again at a crossroads — demanding answers, accountability, and above all, peace.

🕊️ Rest in peace to Marcus White, Jaycieon Bennett, Salvador Ruiz, and Amir Thomas-Clair. May their memories be a call to change and a reminder of what’s at stake.

 

The city of Boston and the hockey world are mourning the loss of Lyndon Byers, who passed away at the age of 61, leaving behind a powerful legacy both on and off the ice.

Best known for his hard-nosed playing style and unshakable spirit, Lyndon was a fan favorite during his years with the Boston Bruins, where he helped lead the team to the Stanley Cup Final twice. A gritty enforcer with a big heart, he brought passion, energy, and an undeniable presence to the rink. His contributions to the game, both in skill and in spirit, earned him lasting respect throughout the NHL community.

After hanging up his skates, Lyndon seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a beloved radio personality in Boston. With his quick wit, infectious laugh, and larger-than-life personality, he entertained and connected with listeners daily, building a second career that endeared him to a new generation of fans.

The Boston Bruins organization released a heartfelt statement following the news of his passing, expressing deep sorrow and gratitude for the mark Lyndon left on the franchise and the city:

“Lyndon Byers was the embodiment of Bruins hockey — tough, loyal, and full of heart. His passion extended far beyond the rink, and his presence in our community will be greatly missed. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and countless fans.”

Lyndon Byers leaves behind a legacy of resilience, camaraderie, and joy. He was more than an athlete; he was a bridge between generations of fans, a spirited broadcaster, and a symbol of Boston pride.

🕊️ Rest in peace, Lyndon. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of Bruins Nation and all who had the privilege to cheer you on.

 

What began as a night of celebration for the Fourth of July turned into a harrowing tragedy in downtown Indianapolis, as a mass shooting near South Illinois and West Washington streets claimed the lives of two teenagers and left five others injured in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m., during what should have been a time of joy and unity. Instead, chaos erupted in the heart of the city, with seven young people, ages 16 to 21, caught in the gunfire.

Among the lives lost was 16-year-old Xavion Jackson, a teen described by those who knew him as resilient, loyal, and full of life. Xavion was pronounced dead at the scene, his future stolen by a bullet, just like so many other young people before him in communities plagued by gun violence. A second victim, a 15-year-old boy, succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital.

The five surviving victims — three adults and two juveniles — are being treated for injuries of varying severity. Authorities have not released their names but confirmed that none are currently in critical condition.

A Cycle of Violence and Heartbreak

Xavion’s death marks not just the loss of a promising young man, but a continuation of a heartbreaking pattern. His life had already been shaped by trauma and loss. Xavion’s father was a victim of gun violence, a tragedy that deeply impacted the family. In a desperate effort to protect her sons, Xavion’s mother relocated out of state, seeking refuge from the relentless dangers of Indianapolis’s streets.

But, like many young people with roots and relationships in their hometown, Xavion and his brother were often drawn back — returning to stay with friends or relatives. His mother reportedly filed multiple missing persons reports over the years when her sons would return without her knowledge, trying to keep them safe in a world that offered them little peace.

Now, that same mother must face the unthinkable: burying her second loved one lost to senseless violence.

The Community Responds

As police continue to investigate the shooting, the community is left reeling — once again asking how and why. Indianapolis residents gathered Saturday morning for impromptu vigils, some holding signs that read “Enough is Enough”, demanding action against the seemingly endless tide of shootings that have gripped the city.

Local leaders and community activists have voiced frustration over the lack of intervention and resources for at-risk youth. “We’ve lost too many sons, too many daughters,” one resident said through tears. “We light candles. We bury our kids. And then we wait for it to happen again.”

An Ongoing Investigation

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made, and officials have not shared details regarding potential suspects or motives. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and asking anyone with information to come forward.

City officials have promised an increased police presence in the downtown area, but for many, that does little to address the root causes of the violence: poverty, disconnection, generational trauma, and the easy accessibility of firearms.

A Name to Remember: Xavion Jackson

At just 16 years old, Xavion Jackson’s life ended far too soon, but his story speaks volumes. He was a boy caught in a storm not of his making — a teen who had dreams, struggles, and the love of a mother who tried everything to keep him safe.

As his name joins a long and painful list of young victims in Indianapolis, his community is left mourning not only what was lost, but what might have been.

🕊️ Rest in power, Xavion. May your story move hearts, and may your memory fuel change.

 

Florence, South Carolina, With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Tallon Davis Goff, age 22, of Florence, SC, who departed this life on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

Born in Florence on December 5, 2002, Tallon was the beloved son of Kathryn Minshew Goff and Robert L. Goff III. He was a senior at the University of South Carolina, studying at the Darla Moore School of Business, with his graduation just months away in December. A proud Palmetto Fellows Scholarship recipient and Marshal of the Delta Chapter of Sigma Nu, Tallon lived with intention, joy, and undeniable charisma.

To know Tallon was to love him. His spirit was adventurous, his heart fearless, and his loyalty unshakable. Whether it was cracking a joke, leading his fraternity brothers, or cheering on the Gamecocks in his signature garnet and black overalls, Tallon had a magnetic presence that drew people in and lit up every room—or tailgate—he entered.

Tallon had a deep connection to the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and exploring the natural world were more than hobbies—they were passions that defined the rhythm of his life. His love for family and friends ran deep, and he never missed an opportunity to stand up for those he cared about.

He is survived by his devoted parents, Kathryn and Robert, and his loving brothers, Collin Lang Goff and Adam Gardner Goff. He is also deeply mourned by his maternal grandparents, Cameron Tallon Minshew and Roland G. “Butch” Minshew; paternal grandparents, Reba B. Goff and Robert L. Goff; and his cherished great aunt, Kathy Lee Minshew. A wide circle of friends, fraternity brothers, classmates, and extended family will carry his memory with them always.

A funeral service to celebrate Tallon’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Highland Park United Methodist Church, located at 1300 2nd Loop Road, Florence, SC 29505. The family will receive friends following the service to share memories and honor Tallon’s remarkable life.

Details regarding memorial donations in Tallon’s honor will be shared in the coming days for those who wish to support a cause close to his heart.

Though his time with us was far too short, Tallon’s fiery soul, boundless energy, and unforgettable laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His memory will forever echo through Williams-Brice Stadium, the woods and waters of South Carolina, and the lives of those he touched.

🕊️ Rest easy, Tallon. Your legacy is etched in love.

 

BATON ROUGE, La.— A tragic early-morning collision on Friday, July 4, 2025, claimed the life of one man and left another hospitalized with life-threatening injuries after a wrong-way crash on South I-110, according to the Baton Rouge Police Department.

Authorities say the crash occurred around 3:17 a.m. in the 700 block of South I-110, a stretch of highway that cuts through the heart of Baton Rouge. Investigators believe Michael Young, 54, was driving a Jaguar X-Type northbound in the southbound lanes when his vehicle collided head-on with a Dodge Ram traveling in the correct direction.

Emergency responders arrived quickly, but sadly, Young was pronounced dead at the scene. Police confirmed that he was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, but the impact of the collision was too severe to survive.

The driver of the Dodge Ram, 32-year-old Darrell Batiste, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he remains under intensive care. His current condition has not been publicly updated, but doctors are reportedly doing everything they can to stabilize him.

The circumstances that led Young to drive the wrong way remain under investigation. Police have requested toxicology reports for both drivers to determine whether impairment may have been a factor. Those results are still pending, and detectives are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or seen Young’s vehicle prior to the collision to contact authorities.

The crash has deeply shaken the local community and serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of wrong-way driving. Although rare, wrong-way crashes are often catastrophic, frequently resulting in serious injury or death due to their violent, head-on nature.

This incident also adds to the growing number of traffic fatalities across Louisiana in 2025, prompting renewed calls for increased safety measures on the state’s highways, especially in areas known for late-night traffic and impaired driving.

As the investigation continues, the Baton Rouge Police Department is expected to release more details once the toxicology findings are available and additional witness accounts are gathered.

In the meantime, community members are rallying around Darrell Batiste’s family, offering prayers and support as he fights for his life. Friends and relatives of Michael Young are also grappling with the shock of his sudden passing.

This tragic event highlights the urgent need for continued awareness, education, and enforcement around roadway safety. The hope remains that through investigation and reflection, similar tragedies can be prevented in the future.

Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact the Baton Rouge Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Division.

🕯️ In remembrance of Michael Young and in support of Darrell Batiste, let us all remain vigilant on our roads—every life matters.

 

Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia, It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Mike Noyce, who lost his life in a devastating shop fire on July 4, 2025, in Shawnigan Lake, BC. Mike’s passing has left a hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and the broader community who knew and loved him.

Mike was more than just a devoted father—he was a kind, compassionate soul whose presence brought laughter, comfort, and strength to those around him. Known for his quick wit, generous spirit, and unwavering loyalty, Mike touched the lives of many. Whether he was lending a helping hand, sharing a laugh, or showing up when someone needed him most, he lived with a heart full of purpose and care.

His loss is felt deeply across Shawnigan Lake, where Mike was a respected and cherished member of the community. He leaves behind family members who are now navigating unimaginable grief while trying to honor his memory and legacy.

In response to this tragedy, friends and loved ones have come together to launch a GoFundMe campaign to support Mike’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Funds raised will go toward funeral expenses and providing immediate support for his loved ones as they begin to heal and adjust to life without him.

The community’s outpouring of love and support is a testament to the impact Mike had on so many. As we remember his warmth, laughter, and unwavering presence, we ask those who are able to consider donating or sharing the campaign to help ease the burden on his grieving family.

🕯️ Rest in peace, Mike Noyce. Your legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will never be forgotten.

 

 

Chicago, IL – July 4, 2025 — What was meant to be a day of celebration turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Chicago’s West Side, as a horrifying act of domestic violence claimed the life of 4-year-old Jordan Wallace, leaving his family and community shattered.

According to authorities, around 9:00 a.m. on Friday, first responders from the Chicago Police Department and Chicago Fire Department rushed to a home near Central Park Avenue and West Palmer Street in the Logan Square neighborhood following reports of a house fire.

As firefighters worked to battle the growing blaze, they heard cries for help coming from the basement. Inside, they made a devastating discovery: Jordan Wallace, a small child with a stab wound to his chest, lying unresponsive. He was immediately rushed to Stroger Hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead.

Jordan’s two older siblings — a 10-year-old brother and 13-year-old sister — were also found inside the home, suffering from multiple stab wounds to their faces, chests, and backs. Both children were transported in critical condition to nearby hospitals, where they remain under close care. Their conditions are being monitored closely as they fight for their lives.

Authorities say the children’s 45-year-old mother, who has not yet been publicly identified, is in custody and is the sole suspect in this appalling act of violence. She was reportedly found upstairs in the home, still holding a knife covered in blood, according to investigators. Police believe she carried out the attacks on all three of her children before setting the house on fire.

The blaze spread quickly to a neighboring building, leading to smoke inhalation injuries for a 31-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man, both of whom are now listed in fair condition. Additionally, three Chicago Police Officers were treated for injuries sustained while attempting to rescue occupants trapped in the burning buildings.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the identity of the deceased child as Jordan Wallace, a bright young boy whose life was cut tragically short in one of the city’s most disturbing incidents in recent memory. A small memorial with candles, teddy bears, and flowers has already begun to grow outside the home as the community mourns.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is assisting Area Five Detectives with the ongoing investigation, which includes examining the cause of the fire and collecting forensic evidence from the scene.

This act of violence has sent shockwaves through Chicago and beyond, raising urgent questions about mental health, family trauma, and how such tragedy could unfold unnoticed. Many in the community are grappling with grief, anger, and disbelief.

“We’re grieving as a city today. Jordan was just a child, full of life and promise,” said one community member at a vigil held Friday evening. “No child deserves this. No family deserves this pain.”

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone who may have noticed signs of distress or instability within the household in recent weeks to come forward. The safety of surviving children and the pursuit of justice now remain top priorities.

Please join the city of Chicago in keeping the Wallace family in your thoughts and prayers. Let us uplift Jordan’s memory and surround his injured siblings with strength and healing. May their recovery be full, and may the violence that took an innocent child’s life serve as a call for greater compassion, vigilance, and community support.

🕊️ Rest in Peace, Jordan Wallace.

Born an angel, gone too soon.

 

Detroit, MI – July 5, 2025 — A tragic scene unfolded on Detroit’s east side Friday night, where what first appeared to be a routine traffic crash turned out to be a deadly shooting. The incident has left one young man dead, another fighting for his life, and a community reeling from the sudden violence.

According to the Detroit Police Department, officers responded just after 8:30 p.m. to reports of a vehicle crash in the 1700 block of Nevada, a typically quiet residential area. When first responders arrived, they found a vehicle that had veered off the road and struck a fixed object.

However, what initially seemed to be a single-car accident quickly revealed a much darker reality: both occupants of the vehicle had been shot. The driver, identified as 20-year-old Amir Thomas-Clair, was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim, whose identity has not been released, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

Investigators believe the shooting occurred shortly before or during the crash, though the exact sequence of events remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet identified any suspects or a motive.

The Detroit Police Department’s homicide unit is actively pursuing leads and is urging anyone with information to come forward. Community members, shaken by the sudden violence, gathered near the scene late into the evening, seeking answers and calling for justice.

As the investigation continues, the family of Amir Thomas-Clair mourns the loss of a young life cut tragically short. Meanwhile, residents across Detroit are once again reminded of the urgent need to address gun violence and its devastating impact on the city’s youth.

Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact Detroit Police or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.