Author: Admin

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Joseph Rich Jr., who departed this world far too soon on May 11, 2025, at the age of 40. Born and raised in Manhattan, NY, Michael was a beloved son, a devoted friend, and an exceptional human being who touched countless lives with his kindness, unwavering generosity, and quiet strength.

Michael’s life was a testament to compassion and dedication. He was known for his infectious smile, his sharp wit, and a deep empathy that resonated in every interaction. Whether you were a lifelong friend or a stranger crossing paths just once, Michael had a way of making you feel seen, heard, and valued. He carried himself with humility and grace, and those fortunate enough to know him will remember a person who always placed others before himself.

A graduate of New York University, Michael pursued a career that reflected his passion for justice and community service. He worked tirelessly as a community advocate, dedicating his time to numerous causes that sought to uplift underserved populations in the city he so deeply loved. His colleagues and peers respected him not just for his work ethic, but for his integrity and ability to bring people together in the face of adversity.

Beyond his professional life, Michael was an avid reader, a music lover, and someone who found joy in the simple pleasures of life—long walks through Central Park, coffee at his favorite neighborhood café, spontaneous weekend getaways, and laughter-filled dinners with family and friends. He had a rare ability to find beauty in the ordinary, a quality that made even everyday moments feel special in his presence.

Michael is survived by his loving parents, Michael Sr. and Elaine Rich, his younger sister Rebecca Rich, and a wide circle of family and friends who will carry his memory forward with deep affection and reverence. He was also a proud uncle to Luca and Ivy, who brought him immense joy and who will grow up hearing the many stories of their uncle’s remarkable heart.

The visitation will be held at Joseph V. Leahy Funeral Home, where friends and loved ones are welcome to gather, share memories, and pay their respects. A funeral mass celebrating Michael’s life will follow at St. Joseph’s Church, a place that held special meaning for him and his family.

Michael’s legacy is not just in the deeds he accomplished or the roles he played—it is in the lives he touched, the love he gave so freely, and the example he set for living with purpose, compassion, and authenticity. Though his time with us was too short, his impact is lasting, and his memory will remain a guiding light for all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Michael’s honor to The Bowery Mission, an organization he supported wholeheartedly.

May his soul rest in peace and may we find comfort in the enduring love he left behind.

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With heavy and grieving hearts, we announce the untimely passing of Lillyanne Elizabeth Martin, who departed this life on May 5, 2025, at the young age of 20. Lillyanne was a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her — a beloved daughter, cherished sister, loyal friend, and a kind soul whose warmth and laughter brought comfort and joy to those around her.

Born and raised in Parkersburg, West Virginia, Lillyanne carried the strength and resilience of her Appalachian roots, along with a spirit full of dreams and compassion. She was known for her gentle heart, creative mind, and unwavering loyalty to the people she loved. Whether through a quiet word of encouragement, a listening ear, or her infectious smile, Lillyanne had a remarkable ability to make others feel seen, valued, and cared for.

She had a deep love for music, nature, and writing — often escaping into poetry or long walks in the woods where she felt closest to peace. Her artistic spirit and empathy left an indelible mark on the hearts of her family and friends. She was the kind of person who remembered birthdays, offered kindness without asking, and stood up for those who couldn’t stand up for themselves.

Lillyanne leaves behind a grieving family who loved her beyond words — her parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family, all of whom carry the weight of her absence with profound sorrow. She also leaves behind countless friends and members of the community who were touched by her presence, her honesty, and her unshakeable kindness.

To honor Lillyanne’s life and the light she brought into this world, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home in Parkersburg. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend, share memories, and pay tribute to her life — a life short in years but vast in love and meaning.

In this time of grief, we ask that you please hold her family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. May we all find solace in the memories we shared and the love she left behind.

Though gone too soon, Lillyanne’s spirit will remain — in whispered memories, in acts of kindness, and in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Rest in peace, Lillyanne. You will forever be loved, remembered, and missed.

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A tragic scene unfolded Friday afternoon at a bustling business complex in Colorado Springs, as police responded to reports of a fatal shooting at the Parkhill Business Centre. The incident, which occurred around 2:40 p.m., has left one individual dead and sparked a full-scale investigation by the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD).

The shooting took place in the 2800 block of East Pikes Peak Avenue, a commercial area just east of Memorial Park, which houses a number of offices and local businesses. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, prompting frantic calls to 911. CSPD officers arrived at the scene within minutes and immediately secured the area.

Upon arrival, officers located a male victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency medical personnel, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.

The area surrounding the business center was cordoned off as detectives and forensic teams began combing through evidence. Police have not confirmed whether a suspect has been identified or taken into custody. However, CSPD stated that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public at this time.

“We are still in the very early stages of this investigation,” said CSPD spokesperson Sgt. Jason Murray during a brief press conference. “We are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information to come forward.”

Businesses in the Parkhill Business Centre closed for the remainder of the day as the investigation unfolded. Employees and nearby residents expressed shock and concern over the violence in what is typically a quiet and orderly part of the city.

“I was in a meeting when I heard the shots,” said one office worker who asked not to be named. “At first I thought it was construction or something, but then we saw people running. It was terrifying.”

This marks the latest in a series of violent incidents that have occurred in Colorado Springs over the past few months, prompting renewed discussions around public safety and gun violence in the community. Local leaders and law enforcement officials have pledged to increase patrols in high-traffic business and residential areas as part of their ongoing crime prevention strategy.

Authorities are urging anyone with surveillance footage from the surrounding area between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to contact CSPD. The department has also opened a dedicated tip line to assist in gathering information from the public.

As the investigation continues, the Colorado Springs community mourns the loss of another life to senseless violence. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

 

A devastating storm system that swept through the Midwest on Friday afternoon has left a trail of destruction in its wake, killing at least four people in the St. Louis area. St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer confirmed the fatalities, attributing them to a powerful tornado that tore through parts of the city, toppling buildings, downing trees, and causing widespread panic.

One of the most tragic incidents occurred at the Centennial Christian Church, located at the intersection of Fountain and Aubert Avenues in St. Louis City. As the tornado roared through the area, the church’s structure gave way and partially collapsed. At the time of the collapse, three people were inside the building. Rescue crews responded swiftly, but one person was found dead amid the debris. The other two were transported to nearby hospitals with injuries, the severity of which has not yet been released.

Emergency responders have been working tirelessly throughout the night, clearing debris and conducting search-and-rescue operations. The extent of the damage has not been fully assessed, but local authorities describe the scene as “catastrophic,” with multiple structures either severely damaged or completely destroyed. Entire blocks in some neighborhoods have been left unrecognizable.

Police have cordoned off the worst-hit areas and are urging the public to avoid the affected zones to allow emergency crews to work unhindered. “We ask everyone to stay away from the impacted neighborhoods. This is an ongoing emergency,” St. Louis Police Department said in a statement.

The storm system that struck St. Louis is part of a larger, volatile weather pattern affecting much of the central United States. Meteorologists say that millions of people remain under threat as the system continues to move eastward. The National Weather Service has issued tornado watches and warnings across several states, cautioning that more tornadoes, violent winds, and large hail are possible through the weekend.

“This is a dangerous and dynamic situation,” said a spokesperson from the National Weather Service. “Conditions are ripe for further severe weather outbreaks, and we urge residents to have multiple ways to receive alerts and take shelter immediately when warnings are issued.”

Power outages have been reported across the region, with utility companies struggling to restore electricity in areas where power lines have been downed by trees and debris. Emergency shelters have been opened to accommodate those displaced by the storm, and city officials are coordinating with the Red Cross and other aid organizations to provide food, water, and medical care to affected residents.

For many in St. Louis, the images of destruction are all too reminiscent of past tornado disasters, reigniting discussions about infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness in the face of increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

As of Saturday morning, officials have not released the names of the victims, pending notification of their families. The St. Louis community is in mourning as residents begin the painful process of recovery while remaining on edge due to the ongoing severe weather threat.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and updates are expected throughout the day as damage assessments progress and more details emerge.

Residents are urged to:

• Stay tuned to local news and weather alerts.
• Take immediate shelter when a tornado warning is issued.
• Avoid downed power lines and report them to utility companies.
• Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with mobility issues.

The city’s emergency response teams remain on high alert, prepared to respond to additional crises as the storm system continues its path across the Midwest and into the Eastern U.S.

On January 16, 2025, LSU freshman quarterback Colin Hurley was involved in a serious car accident near the university’s campus in Baton Rouge. The incident occurred around 2:45 a.m. when Hurley’s Dodge Charger collided with a tree near South Quad Drive and Highland Road, close to the south gates of LSU’s campus .

First responders from LSU Police and the Baton Rouge Fire Department arrived at the scene to find Hurley unresponsive but breathing. He was in and out of consciousness and had sustained a significant facial laceration. Emergency personnel extricated him from the vehicle and transported him to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital for treatment .

Hurley’s family released a statement expressing gratitude to the first responders, medical staff, and LSU community for their support. They confirmed that Colin is resting and stable while undergoing further tests and care, and they are confident he will make a full recovery .

Authorities have stated that impairment is not suspected in the crash, though the exact cause remains under investigation . Due to Hurley being a minor at 17 years old, LSU officials have refrained from commenting further on the incident .

Colin Hurley, a four-star recruit from Trinity Christian Academy in Jacksonville, Florida, joined LSU’s 2024 recruiting class after reclassifying to graduate early. He enrolled at LSU at just 16 years old and spent the 2024 season as a redshirt freshman, serving as a backup quarterback .

The LSU community continues to rally around Hurley, offering support and well-wishes for his recovery. As more information becomes available, updates will be provided regarding his condition and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

 

A devastating storm system, believed to include a tornado, tore through St. Louis on Friday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Among the most tragic outcomes of the severe weather was the collapse of the historic Centennial Christian Church, located at 4950 Fountain Avenue in the Fountain Park neighborhood. The collapse resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to two others.

Historic Church Crumbles Under the Force of Nature

As the storm intensified late Friday afternoon, witnesses reported fierce winds, torrential rain, and an ominous roar as the skies darkened over the city. At the height of the storm, the Centennial Christian Church, a longstanding beacon in its community, partially collapsed. The building’s façade and roof gave way, trapping three people inside.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and worked tirelessly amid dangerous conditions to extract those caught in the rubble. Two individuals were rescued and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Tragically, one person was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, pending notification of the family.

A Community in Mourning

Founded over a century ago, Centennial Christian Church has been more than just a house of worship—it has served as a cornerstone of hope, faith, and service in the Fountain Park area. The church’s Gothic Revival architecture made it one of the neighborhood’s most recognizable landmarks, and its doors have long been open to anyone seeking support, solace, or community.

For many local residents, the church was an intergenerational home—a place where their grandparents were married, where they themselves were baptized, or where neighborhood events and outreach programs took place. The news of its collapse sent waves of grief and shock through the congregation and wider community.

“It’s more than bricks and stained glass. It’s the heart of our neighborhood,” said Angela Reed, a lifelong member of the church who rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. “Losing someone inside those walls is unthinkable. And now, those walls are gone.”

Aftermath and Recovery

City officials confirmed that the collapse was directly tied to the severe weather system, which left numerous neighborhoods with downed power lines, uprooted trees, and damaged homes. The National Weather Service is working to confirm whether a tornado officially touched down in the area.

Mayor Tishaura Jones released a statement Friday evening offering condolences to the victim’s family and praising the efforts of first responders:

“Our hearts are with those impacted by this tragic event. Centennial Christian Church has stood for unity, service, and hope for more than a hundred years. Today, we mourn the loss of a life and a cherished place in our city. We will support this community through the days ahead.”

Structural engineers and city officials have cordoned off the surrounding area as they assess the stability of the remaining structure. Preliminary reports suggest the building is a total loss.

Faith Through the Rubble

Despite the overwhelming loss, church leaders have already begun discussing how to continue their mission. Reverend Carl Simmons, senior pastor of Centennial Christian Church, addressed the media with emotion but determination.

“This church was never just about a building. It’s about people, faith, and resilience. We will honor the memory of the person we lost and carry their spirit forward in everything we do. We will rebuild—not just physically, but spiritually.”

Counselors and grief support services are being coordinated for congregation members and residents impacted by the collapse.

Weather Outlook and Continued Risk

Meteorologists warn that the same storm system could produce additional severe weather across parts of Missouri and Illinois through the weekend. Residents are urged to remain alert, heed weather warnings, and take shelter during future storm advisories.

As St. Louis begins the slow process of recovery, the collapse of Centennial Christian Church stands as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable force of nature. But amid the sorrow, a spirit of community endures—one that promises to lift each other from the rubble and rebuild, together.

The East Feliciana Parish community is mourning the tragic and untimely death of Alexus Lee, a beloved educator at East Feliciana STEAM Academy, who was killed in a fatal car accident on Friday morning in Baton Rouge. Her passing has sent shockwaves through the parish, leaving students, colleagues, friends, and family grieving the loss of a young woman whose life was defined by passion, purpose, and love for her community.

Alexus Lee, in her twenties, was more than an educator—she was a role model, mentor, and a shining light in the halls of East Feliciana STEAM Academy. Her dynamic and inspiring presence brought energy, creativity, and deep care to her classroom. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with her students, many of whom looked up to her not only as a teacher but as a source of hope and strength.

A proud 2017 graduate of East Feliciana High School, Alexus was a product of the very community she later returned to serve. Understanding the challenges and potential of her students, she chose to come back to East Feliciana after completing her education elsewhere, driven by a calling to give back to the place that raised her. She did so with every lesson plan, mentoring session, and word of encouragement she offered.

The fatal accident occurred in Baton Rouge early Friday morning. While details from local authorities are still unfolding, the loss is already being deeply felt across the region. School officials confirmed her passing in an emotional message to parents and students, describing her as “a bright, beloved member of our educational family whose impact extended far beyond the classroom.”

In the wake of her death, tributes have poured in from across the parish and beyond. Students have taken to social media to share their memories—many describing how Alexus helped them believe in themselves or encouraged them to pursue goals they never thought possible. Colleagues have remembered her infectious laughter, fearless dedication to education, and the love she poured into every lesson.

Community members, still trying to comprehend the sudden loss, have begun organizing vigils and memorial services in her honor. Flowers and notes now line the entrance to East Feliciana STEAM Academy, and grief counselors have been made available to students and staff as they navigate the heartbreak of losing someone who had become such an integral part of their daily lives.

Beyond the classroom, Alexus was known for her vibrant personality, love of family, and deep faith. She often spoke of her desire to see East Feliciana youth thrive and aimed to create opportunities for students to engage with science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics in meaningful, accessible ways. She was instrumental in several initiatives that brought hands-on learning experiences to the school, and her impact on STEM education in the region will not be forgotten.

For the Lee family, the loss is unspeakably painful. Alexus was a daughter, a sister, and a source of immeasurable pride. In a statement, her family expressed their profound sorrow but also gratitude for the outpouring of love and support:

“Alexus lived a life full of purpose, laughter, and love. She gave so much of herself to her students, her colleagues, and her community. We are heartbroken, but we take comfort in knowing how many lives she touched.”

As East Feliciana Parish mourns this unimaginable loss, there are already calls from within the community to honor Alexus’s legacy through scholarships, school programs, and dedications that will continue the work she was so passionate about. Plans are underway to name a future STEAM initiative or student leadership award after her—a lasting tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to helping others rise.

Alexus Lee’s time on this earth was far too short, but her legacy is profound and enduring. She changed lives, uplifted her community, and left an indelible mark on all who knew her

 

The medical community and residents across Galesburg, Peoria, and the greater Central Illinois region are united in mourning the devastating and untimely loss of Dr. Syed Imam, a deeply respected nephrologist and internal medicine physician. At just 44 years old, Dr. Imam’s life was tragically cut short in a fatal car accident on U.S. Highway 67 near Monmouth, leaving a profound void in the hearts of his colleagues, patients, friends, and family.

Dr. Imam was far more than a physician. He was a healer in every sense of the word—committed not only to the science of medicine but to the humanity that lives within it. For years, he served patients across Central Illinois with compassion, humility, and unwavering dedication. He was a cornerstone of the region’s healthcare system, frequently going above and beyond to ensure that every patient received not just excellent care, but also the dignity and respect they deserved.

Born with a calling to serve, Dr. Imam trained tirelessly to become the physician his patients grew to trust and love. His work in nephrology and internal medicine was marked by a deep understanding of both complex medical needs and the emotional lives of the people he cared for. Colleagues describe him as a soft-spoken leader, one whose humility never overshadowed his brilliance, and whose integrity served as a compass for others in the field.

Patients often remarked on his gentle demeanor and his rare ability to make them feel seen and heard, no matter the severity of their condition. For Dr. Imam, medicine was not merely a profession—it was a sacred responsibility. He viewed each interaction as an opportunity to listen, to heal, and to give comfort. His offices in Galesburg and surrounding areas were often described as safe havens for those facing uncertainty, fear, or pain.

News of Dr. Imam’s tragic passing has sent waves of sorrow throughout the region. Hospitals and clinics are grappling not only with the loss of a valued team member but with the emotional toll it has taken on staff and patients alike. In towns like Peoria and Monmouth, where his presence was deeply felt, tributes have poured in—from handwritten notes to vigils held in his memory.

“He was more than a doctor to me—he was a lifeline,” one longtime patient said. “I walked into his office scared and sick. I walked out with hope. That’s who he was.”

His medical colleagues remember him as a collaborative, thoughtful professional who made everyone around him better. He mentored younger physicians and medical students with patience and grace, always emphasizing the need to marry clinical expertise with compassion.

Dr. Imam’s commitment extended beyond clinic walls. He participated in community health initiatives, volunteered his time to underserved populations, and continuously advocated for better access to medical care in rural communities. His life was a testament to service, guided by faith, empathy, and a deep belief in the sanctity of life.

He leaves behind a grieving family, including his beloved wife and children, who were the center of his world. Friends remember him as a devoted father, a kind neighbor, and a man of quiet strength and integrity.

In this time of unimaginable grief, Central Illinois stands together in remembrance of a man whose life was devoted to lifting others. The loss of Dr. Syed Imam is not just a personal tragedy—it is a communal one. His absence will be felt in every hospital hallway, in every patient chart left unsigned, and in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

As we reflect on Dr. Imam’s legacy, we find solace in the countless lives he touched and the enduring example he leaves behind. His memory will live on in every act of care, in every patient’s recovery, and in every life he helped save.

Rest in peace, Dr. Syed Imam. You were loved. You will be missed. And you will never be forgotten.

We are deeply heartbroken to share the passing of Brandon Montrell Magee, a beloved son, friend, and member of the Baton Rouge community. On May 4, 2025, Brandon departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. His absence is profoundly felt, yet his presence remains with us in spirit, in memory, and in the countless lives he touched.

Born and raised in Louisiana, Brandon was a proud product of his roots. With a vibrant personality and an ever-present smile, he had a way of lighting up every room he entered. He was known for his boundless generosity, his deep loyalty to family and friends, and his remarkable ability to lift others even during his own storms. Whether it was offering a listening ear, sharing a hearty laugh, or showing up when it mattered most—Brandon showed love in action.

Brandon’s journey through life was marked by compassion and resilience. A graduate of Bogalusa High School, he carried with him a spirit of pride and determination. He was the kind of person who could turn strangers into friends and friends into family. He brought people together and reminded us all of what it meant to truly care for one another.

Those closest to Brandon remember his warmth and his wisdom, far beyond his years. He had a rare gift for making others feel seen and valued. In every interaction, no matter how brief, he left people better than he found them. His memory lives on in the stories we share, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave so freely.

To honor Brandon’s life and legacy, a Celebration of Life will be held at Bogalusa High School on May 17, 2025. This gathering will be a time for family, friends, and community to come together in remembrance of a beautiful life, gone too soon but never forgotten.

In times like these, we are reminded to cherish every moment, to hold our loved ones a little tighter, and to honor the lives of those we’ve lost by living fully and loving fiercely. Brandon Montrell Magee may have left this world, but his spirit, his laughter, and his love remain.

Rest well, Brandon. You will forever be missed and always remembered.

 

Our hearts are broken as we share the profound loss of Barbara and Kenneth Pruitt of Azle, Texas. This devoted couple, who shared a lifetime of love and strength, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family and one another.

Barbara Pruitt, a woman of extraordinary grace and quiet strength, courageously battled COPD in her final years. She faced every challenge with dignity, never allowing her illness to dim the warmth and love she extended to those around her. Barbara was known for her gentle spirit, nurturing heart, and the kind of wisdom that came from a life well-lived. Her laughter could fill a room, and her words could soothe the hardest of days. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—always putting the needs of others before her own and leaving behind countless memories filled with warmth and kindness.

Kenneth Pruitt, her beloved husband, showed the same strength and courage as he fought stage 4 cancer. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Kenneth was known for his quiet determination, his steady hand, and his endless love for his family. He faced his illness with the same resolve that defined his entire life—never giving up, always thinking of others, and holding tightly to the love he and Barbara shared. Kenneth had a way of making everyone around him feel safe and heard, and his legacy lives on in the lives he touched.

Together, Barbara and Kenneth shared a love story rooted in commitment, perseverance, and a deep faith in one another. Their bond was an inspiration—one that weathered every storm and celebrated every joy. Their passing, while devastating, speaks to a love so powerful that even death could not separate them for long.

In accordance with their wishes, a joint memorial service will be held to celebrate their lives and honor their memory. Family and friends will gather to reflect on the beautiful lives they lived and the impact they made on all who knew them. Their ashes will be lovingly cherished in two special places—among the peace of the mountains they loved and in the quiet stillness of the cemetery, where future generations can pay their respects.

To those who knew Barbara and Kenneth, your support, love, and prayers during this difficult time mean more than words can express. As we grieve their passing, we also celebrate the love they shared, the lives they led, and the memories they leave behind. They will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Rest in peace, Barbara and Kenneth. Your love endures in every heart you touched.

#Azle #InLovingMemory #BarbaraAndKennethPruitt