In Loving Memory of Colby Hanlon

With broken hearts and deep sorrow, we remember the life of Colby Hanlon of Tamworth, who passed away unexpectedly on February 20, 2026, at the age of 40. His sudden departure has left family, friends, and all who knew him grappling with shock, grief, and an overwhelming sense of loss.

Colby’s life, though far too short, was meaningful and deeply connected to the people around him. He was someone whose presence mattered — whether through shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, or simply being there when someone needed support. Those closest to him will remember his individuality, his spirit, and the moments that made him uniquely Colby.

An unexpected loss brings with it unanswered questions and emotions that are difficult to put into words. As his loved ones seek understanding surrounding his passing, they are leaning on one another for strength. In times like this, community becomes everything — a reminder that no one grieves alone.

Colby is dearly missed by his family and friends, who carry treasured memories of him in their hearts. From everyday moments to life’s milestones, the imprint he left cannot be erased. His laughter, his voice, and his presence will echo in the stories shared for years to come.

During this incredibly difficult time, Colby’s family is seeking assistance to help cover cremation costs and to provide a memorial urn that honors his memory with dignity and care. The financial burden that accompanies sudden loss can be overwhelming, and any support — whether through donations or by simply sharing their message — would mean more than words can express.

Every act of kindness, no matter how small, helps lighten the weight his family is carrying. Contributions will go directly toward ensuring Colby receives a respectful farewell and a lasting tribute that reflects the love he inspired in others.

As we remember Colby Hanlon, we honor a life that touched many and ended far too soon. May we hold our loved ones a little closer, speak our words of care more freely, and support one another in the ways that truly matter.

Colby’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the compassion and generosity of the community during this time of profound grief.

In Loving Memory of Stella Perez

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we honor the beautiful life of Stella Perez of Lancaster — a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and treasured member of her community. Stella’s passing has left an emptiness that words can scarcely express, but her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Stella Perez was more than a name — she was the heart of her family. A devoted mother to four children, she dedicated her life to nurturing, guiding, and protecting those she loved. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and open arms. No matter the season of life, Stella made sure her family felt supported and cherished.

Her love multiplied beautifully through generations. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren and a joyful great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren. Each child and grandchild carries a piece of her spirit — her warmth, her resilience, and her unwavering devotion to family. She celebrated every milestone, every birthday, every accomplishment with a heart full of pride. Nothing mattered more to Stella than seeing her family happy and united.

Known for her immense heart and unwavering generosity, Stella had a way of making everyone feel special. Whether through a warm meal, a thoughtful conversation, or a gentle word of encouragement, she gave selflessly. Friends and neighbors remember her as someone who would help without hesitation and love without condition. Her kindness extended beyond her immediate family and into the wider community, touching countless lives in quiet but meaningful ways.

Stella’s strength was another defining part of her character. Through life’s joys and challenges, she remained steady — a pillar her family could lean on. Her wisdom guided many through difficult moments, and her faith and perseverance served as an example to all who watched her live with grace.

Today, as her family navigates this heartbreaking loss, they hold tightly to the memories she leaves behind — the sound of her laughter, the warmth of her embrace, the lessons she taught simply by living a life centered on love. Though she is no longer physically present, her spirit lives on in every family gathering, every shared story, and every act of kindness inspired by her example.

During this difficult time, Stella’s family is seeking support to help cover funeral expenses and ensure she receives the farewell she truly deserves. Honoring her life in a way that reflects the love she gave so freely means everything to those she leaves behind. Any contribution, no matter the size, would be deeply appreciated as the family comes together to celebrate her life and say their goodbyes with dignity and respect.

As we remember Stella Perez, we remember a woman of immense compassion, strength, and devotion. Her legacy is not measured in years, but in the love she planted in the hearts of four children, ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and an entire community who will forever carry her memory forward.

May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so generously gave throughout her life.

In Loving Memory

The community of Pocatello has been shaken by a heartbreaking and tragic event that unfolded inside what should have been a place of comfort and safety — a family home. A terrible scene occurred inside a family apartment when a mother walked into her daughter’s bedroom and witnessed an act of unimaginable violence. It is a moment that will forever be etched into the hearts of those who love her.

According to the Pocatello Police Department, officers responded quickly to an emergency call reporting the attack. Authorities later confirmed that a suspect, Marita Gonzales, was arrested at the scene. She has since been charged with attempted murder and aggravated battery.

At the center of this tragedy is a 32-year-old woman — a daughter, a loved one, and a cherished member of her community. While details of the investigation continue, what remains clear is the profound impact this act has had on her family, friends, and neighbors.

A mother’s worst nightmare unfolded in those devastating moments. No parent should ever have to witness harm come to their child. The strength it must have taken to make that emergency call, to seek help in the midst of fear and chaos, speaks to a love that is fierce and unwavering.

This tragedy has left many in Pocatello feeling shaken, heartbroken, and searching for answers. Apartments, neighborhoods, and familiar streets now carry a weight of sorrow. In times like these, communities often find themselves asking how something so violent could happen so close to home. Yet even in fear, there is unity.

Neighbors have expressed shock and grief, but also solidarity. In difficult moments, communities are reminded of the importance of looking out for one another, offering support, and extending compassion to those directly affected. Vigils, prayers, and messages of hope have begun to circulate, reflecting the collective heartbreak and determination to stand together.

As investigations continue, the focus for many remains on healing and support. Thoughts and prayers surround the victim as she fights through the aftermath of this traumatic event. Her strength, resilience, and the love that surrounds her serve as powerful reminders that even in darkness, there is light.

We honor her not for the violence she endured, but for who she is — a woman with a life, a history, relationships, and dreams. She is more than a headline. She is deeply loved.

To her family, may you find comfort in the embrace of community. To the first responders who acted swiftly, thank you for your courage and dedication. And to the residents of Pocatello, may this painful chapter inspire unity, vigilance, and compassion for one another.

In loving memory and in steadfast hope for healing, may peace find its way back into the hearts of all who have been touched by this tragedy.

In Loving Memory — St. Clair County

A tragic accident has left a family grieving and a community reflecting after a Detroit man lost his life following a devastating crash in St. Clair County.

At approximately noon on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, 911 callers reported that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle along Michigan Road, north of Dove Road, in Port Huron Township. According to the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, the victim — a 51-year-old man from Detroit — was walking along the roadway when he was hit by an SUV and thrown into a roadside ditch.

When first responders arrived, they discovered the man face down in a water-filled ditch. Deputies immediately began life-saving efforts at the scene, working urgently in an attempt to save him. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The vehicle involved in the crash was identified as a 2008 Jeep Liberty driven by a 16-year-old boy from Marine City. Authorities stated that the teenager returned to the scene shortly after the collision and has been cooperating fully with investigators as they continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

While the investigation remains ongoing, the focus now shifts to remembering the life that was lost. A 51-year-old man — a son, perhaps a father, a brother, a friend — whose journey ended far too soon on a quiet stretch of road. His loved ones now face the sudden and painful reality of life without him.

Pedestrian crashes are among the most vulnerable and heartbreaking types of roadway tragedies. In mere seconds, ordinary moments can turn irreversible. For those who knew and loved this Detroit man, the impact is immeasurable. Birthdays, holidays, and everyday conversations will now carry the weight of absence.

In close-knit communities like those across St. Clair County, such incidents ripple outward — affecting not only immediate family but neighbors, first responders, and even strangers who pause to consider how fragile life can be.

As authorities continue their work to understand exactly what happened, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the man who lost his life. May they find strength in cherished memories, comfort in one another, and peace in the days ahead.

May he be remembered not for the tragedy that claimed him, but for the life he lived and the love he shared.

In Loving Memory — Chicago

A profound sense of grief has settled over Chicago’s West Side following the tragic and senseless loss of Shawnquanice Q. Kimbrough, 34, whose life was cut short in a fatal shooting at a hospital parking garage. What should have been a routine visit for medical care became an unimaginable tragedy that has shaken family members, loved ones, and the broader community.

According to University of Illinois Chicago Police Department, Kimbrough was heading to a medical appointment with her infant child when the attack occurred inside a parking structure on the West Side. In a place meant for healing and care, violence instead claimed the life of a young mother.

Authorities reported that the suspect fled the scene before officers could make an immediate arrest. Later, investigators confirmed that the suspected shooter was found deceased at a separate location. The identity of the individual and the cause of death have not yet been released as the investigation continues.

While law enforcement works to close the remaining questions surrounding the case, the focus for many remains on honoring the life of Shawnquanice Q. Kimbrough — a woman remembered not for the tragedy that took her, but for the love she carried and the role she played in the lives of those closest to her.

To lose a loved one in an act of violence is devastating under any circumstance. To have that loss occur while tending to one’s child adds an even deeper layer of heartbreak. An infant now grows up in the shadow of a loss no family should ever have to endure. Loved ones are left to navigate both grief and the overwhelming weight of unanswered questions.

Hospitals are places of hope — destinations for healing, renewal, and care. The violation of that sense of safety has deeply affected not only Kimbrough’s family, but the entire community. Moments like these remind us how fragile life can be and how essential it is to hold our loved ones close.

Friends and family remember Shawnquanice as a devoted mother and a woman whose presence brought warmth to those around her. Though her life was only 34 years long, the impact she made will endure in the hearts of many. Her child carries forward her legacy — a living reminder of the love she gave so freely.

As investigators finalize their work, Chicago stands in mourning. May Shawnquanice Q. Kimbrough be remembered for her strength, her motherhood, and the life she lived. May her family find comfort in shared memories, and may her child grow surrounded by love, support, and the enduring spirit of a mother gone too soon.

Rest in peace.

In Loving Memory — Tempe

The community of Tempe is mourning the tragic loss of Michal Bayne, a man whose disappearance sparked concern, hope, and an intense search that ultimately ended in heartbreak. Authorities confirmed Friday that Bayne, who had been reported missing, was found deceased in Mesa.

The Tempe Police Department located Bayne’s body following an extensive search and investigation. After the discovery, the case was turned over to the Mesa Police Department, which is now leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

In a statement released Friday, police expressed their condolences: “Our thoughts are with Michael’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We understand how deeply this ongoing search has affected the community, and we ask for continued patience and compassion as the investigation moves forward.”

Bayne’s disappearance began on Feb. 17, when he failed to show up for work — something that immediately raised concern. His employer contacted his sister, Brittany Bayne, who quickly realized something was wrong. After repeated calls went unanswered, she went to his apartment to check on him.

What she found only deepened the worry. His car was gone, and no one answered the door. With the landlord’s help, she entered the apartment and discovered his wallet and medication left behind — unusual and troubling signs. However, his identification and debit card were missing.

Recognizing that something was not right, Brittany filed a missing persons report. Detectives began tracking his phone and vehicle, identifying a location connected to both. Yet when officers arrived, neither his car nor his phone was found there, prolonging the mystery and intensifying fears for his safety.

The search that followed weighed heavily on family members, friends, coworkers, and the wider Tempe community. Each passing day without answers was filled with uncertainty and hope that he would be found safe. Instead, that hope turned to grief with the confirmation of his death.

While details surrounding the circumstances remain under investigation, what stands at the forefront is the sorrow felt by those who loved him. A brother, a son, a friend, and a colleague — Michal Bayne’s absence leaves an immeasurable void. His family now faces the unimaginable pain of loss after days of anxious waiting and relentless searching.

This tragedy serves as a reminder of how deeply a missing persons case can impact an entire community. Strangers shared posts, offered tips, and followed updates, united by the simple desire to see him come home safely. The collective grief now reflects that shared concern and compassion.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting his loved ones and honoring his memory. May Michal Bayne be remembered for the life he lived, the relationships he built, and the moments he shared with those who cared about him.

To his family and friends, the community stands beside you in mourning. May you find strength in one another during this profoundly difficult time, and may his memory forever be a source of love and remembrance.

In Loving Memory

The community of Wilkes County is mourning the heartbreaking loss of a devoted educator and respected leader, Mark Byrd, superintendent of Wilkes County Schools, who was found deceased Friday afternoon, Feb. 20. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of students, teachers, staff, and families across the county he faithfully served for decades.

According to the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 3:14 p.m. to a call at a residence on Oak Ridge Church Road in Hays. Sheriff Chris Shew said that upon arrival, deputies found Byrd, 52, inside a vehicle in the garage with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have stated there is no evidence of foul play at this time. The investigation remains ongoing with assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation to ensure a thorough and careful review of the circumstances.

Later Friday, Rudy Holbrook, chairman of the Wilkes County Board of Education, confirmed Byrd’s passing. An official cause of death was not immediately released.

While the details surrounding his death continue to be reviewed, what remains certain is the legacy Mark Byrd leaves behind — one defined by commitment, compassion, and unwavering dedication to education. As superintendent, he carried the responsibility of guiding an entire district, shaping policies, supporting teachers, and advocating for the success and well-being of thousands of students. But beyond the title, he was known as a longtime educator deeply rooted in the Wilkes County community.

Those who worked alongside him describe a leader who understood the challenges facing public schools and approached them with determination and care. He was not only an administrator but also a mentor and colleague who valued relationships and believed in the power of education to transform lives.

In times like these, grief extends far beyond a single family. It touches classrooms, faculty meetings, bus routes, and school hallways throughout the county. Students who may not have known him personally still felt the impact of his leadership. Teachers and staff who worked closely with him now grapple with the sudden loss of someone who helped guide their shared mission.

The passing of a community leader can feel especially heavy in close-knit areas like Wilkes County. Here, schools are more than buildings — they are gathering places, sources of pride, and foundations for future generations. Mark Byrd’s life’s work was intertwined with that foundation.

As the investigation continues, the focus for many remains on honoring his memory and supporting one another. In moments of sorrow, communities are reminded of the importance of compassion, open conversation, and checking in on friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

Wilkes County stands together in mourning. We extend heartfelt condolences to Mark Byrd’s family, friends, coworkers, and the countless students whose lives were shaped by his dedication to education.

May he be remembered not only for the circumstances of his passing, but for the years of service, leadership, and care he gave to the schools and people of Wilkes County.

In Loving Memory

The township of Woodbridge is once again facing heartbreak after a second fatal crash this week claimed a life and left several others seriously injured. In a span of just days, tragedy has struck the community twice, leaving families grieving and neighbors searching for comfort and understanding.

Shortly before midnight Thursday, a Woodbridge Police officer initiated a motor-vehicle pursuit of a Nissan Maxima traveling at a high rate of speed southbound on Route 1. Within approximately one minute of the pursuit beginning, the Nissan crashed into a separate civilian vehicle in the area of Gill Lane.

A passenger inside the Nissan was killed in the collision. The loss of life under such sudden and violent circumstances is devastating, and our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones as they endure unimaginable grief. The other occupants of both vehicles sustained serious injuries and were transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital for treatment. We hold them in our thoughts and hope for their full recovery.

Adding to the sorrow, authorities confirmed that the body of a deceased dog was found inside the Nissan. The loss of any life — human or animal — deepens the emotional weight of this tragedy. Pets are family, and this detail underscores the profound sadness surrounding the crash.

According to the Attorney General, the pursuing police vehicle was not directly involved in the collision. The identities of those involved have not yet been released, as officials continue their investigation and families are notified.

This heartbreaking incident comes just one day after another fatal crash in Woodbridge. On Wednesday night, a separate collision on Route 27 claimed the life of 22-year-old Amber Torres of Colonia. That crash, a head-on collision involving a 28-year-old man from Iselin, shook the community and left friends and family mourning a young life taken far too soon.

Two fatal crashes in one week have left Woodbridge in collective grief. These incidents serve as sobering reminders of how quickly lives can change on our roadways. They also remind us to hold our loved ones close, to drive responsibly, and to support one another during times of sorrow.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on healing and remembrance. To the families affected — your community stands with you. May those who lost their lives rest in peace, and may those recovering from their injuries find strength and comfort in the days ahead.

In Loving Memory of Arthur Hicks

The Vicksburg community is mourning the loss of Arthur Hicks, 63, whose life was tragically cut short. Hicks, who had been reported missing on February 11, was found deceased Friday afternoon in a wooded area near Ameristar Casino.

According to the Vicksburg Police Department, officers responded to a call regarding a deceased individual just after 2:30 p.m. Friday. Hicks was positively identified at the scene. While authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances of his passing, the discovery marks the end of a weeks-long search that had weighed heavily on his family and the community.

Arthur Hicks was a beloved member of the Vicksburg community. Though details of his personal life remain private, those who knew him remember him for his presence, his relationships with family and friends, and the ways he touched those around him. Being reported missing left loved ones in anguish, hoping for his safe return, and his passing has left an immeasurable void in their lives.

The search for Hicks over the past days highlighted the concern and care of the community. Law enforcement, friends, and neighbors all played a part in the effort to locate him, demonstrating the solidarity and compassion that defines Vicksburg.

While the circumstances surrounding Arthur Hicks’ passing continue to be respectfully handled by authorities, it is a moment for the community to remember his life. Losing a loved one, particularly under unexpected circumstances, is profoundly difficult. Friends, neighbors, and family are encouraged to come together in support and reflection, sharing memories and celebrating the impact he had on those around him.

As authorities continue any necessary follow-up, the focus remains on offering comfort and support to his loved ones during this heartbreaking time. Arthur Hicks will be remembered with dignity, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.

May he rest in peace.

In Loving Memory of Connor Oldfield

With heavy hearts, family, friends, and the Plainfield community are mourning the loss of 19-year-old Connor Oldfield, who was found deceased after being reported missing on January 24.

Connor, who was autistic, had been the focus of an extensive and urgent search effort that stretched on for weeks. His disappearance came during one of New Jersey’s coldest and snowiest periods in recent years, heightening concerns about the harsh winter conditions and the challenges they posed.

According to city spokesperson James T. Abney, Connor’s body was discovered in Green Brook near the Roosevelt Avenue bridge in Plainfield. Green Brook is a narrow stream that winds through residential backyards and public park areas, a quiet waterway now marked by unimaginable sorrow.

At this time, authorities have not publicly confirmed how long Connor may have been in the water or the official cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing pending further examination and findings from medical authorities.

In the days and weeks following his disappearance, search teams, law enforcement, and community members worked tirelessly, holding onto hope for Connor’s safe return. The freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall made the search especially difficult, but it did not diminish the determination of those who cared about him.

During that time, Connor’s mother bravely spoke out, sharing her fears and questions as any parent would while searching for answers. Authorities have stated there is no indication that his disappearance was connected to immigration enforcement or ICE custody, despite concerns raised during the search.

Connor was more than the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. He was a son, a loved one, and a young man navigating the world in his own unique way. Individuals on the autism spectrum often experience the world differently — with depth, sensitivity, and individuality that enrich the lives of those around them.

Those who knew Connor remember him for who he was beyond headlines — a young man with his own interests, routines, and personality. His absence leaves a profound void in the lives of his family and all who loved him.

As Plainfield reflects on this heartbreaking loss, many are reminded of the importance of community — of coming together in times of uncertainty and grief. The weeks of searching demonstrated how deeply people care and how powerful collective support can be.

Connor’s passing also brings renewed awareness to the unique vulnerabilities that individuals with autism and other developmental differences may face, especially in emergency situations or harsh weather conditions. Compassion, understanding, and community vigilance can make an important difference.

The investigation into Connor’s death remains active, and authorities are expected to provide updates when official findings are available. Until then, the focus remains on supporting his family as they endure an unimaginable loss.

Our thoughts are with Connor Oldfield’s loved ones during this painful time. May his memory be carried forward with gentleness, dignity, and love.