Blog

🕊️ In Loving Memory of Vaune Vacarro A Life Remembered with Compassion and Dignity 🕊️

With heavy hearts, we pause to remember Vaune Vacarro, a 56-year-old woman whose life was tragically lost in a deadly pedestrian crash on Sunday in Cranston. Though her journey was marked by hardship and distance, Vaune’s life mattered, and her passing is deserving of remembrance, compassion, and humanity.

According to the state medical examiner’s office, Vaune was struck and killed by a vehicle while in the breakdown lane on Scituate Avenue. Responding officers found her suffering from catastrophic injuries, and despite immediate life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead just minutes later. The suddenness and severity of the incident have left many reflecting on the fragility of life and the silent struggles some endure.

Police later arrested Richard D’Amico, 30, charging him in connection with the crash for allegedly failing to stop afterward. Authorities noted there was no record of a 911 call or any attempt to report the incident. The investigation continues as officials work to understand the full circumstances surrounding that tragic night.

Vaune’s family shared that they had not seen or communicated with her in several years, describing her as transient. Over time, Vaune had lived in multiple states, including Florida, California, Colorado, New York, Virginia, and Massachusetts, her life shaped by movement and change. No missing persons report had been filed prior to the crash, a detail that underscores how quietly some lives can drift from view—even as they remain deeply valuable.

While much of Vaune’s recent life may not be fully known, what remains undeniable is her humanity. She was someone’s daughter, someone’s family, a person with a past, experiences, and stories that mattered. Her life was more than the circumstances of her death, and her memory deserves to be held with care rather than judgment.

In remembering Vaune Vacarro, we are reminded of those who live on the margins, often unseen and unheard. Her passing calls for greater compassion, awareness, and responsibility—for one another and for those who may be walking life’s road alone.

May Vaune Vacarro be remembered with dignity and grace. May she find the peace in rest that may have eluded her in life, and may her memory serve as a reminder that every life has worth, every person deserves care, and no one should ever be forgotten.

🕊️ Rest in peace, Vaune. You are seen. You are remembered. 🕊️

🌸 Remembering Florence L. Chumbow A Gentle Life, Forever Held in Our Hearts 🌸

With deep sorrow and tender remembrance, we honor the life of Florence L. Chumbow, a 73-year-old cherished resident of Silver Spring, Maryland, whose life was tragically lost on Monday evening, January 12, 2026. Florence’s passing has left a profound sadness in the hearts of her loved ones and within the community she called home—a life of quiet presence and dignity taken far too soon.

That evening, at approximately 6:39 p.m., officers from the Montgomery County Department of Police, 3rd District, along with Fire and Rescue personnel, responded to reports of a pedestrian collision in the area of southbound Columbia Pike (Route 29) and Fairland Road. Upon arrival, responders found Florence in the roadway, where she was heartbreakingly pronounced deceased.

Investigators with the Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) determined that two separate collisions occurred. The first took place as Florence was crossing the southbound lanes of Columbia Pike near the crosswalk, where she was struck in lane one by a red or maroon 1999–2003 Toyota Solara. Witnesses reported that the driver continued southbound and did not return to the scene. Detectives later confirmed that a Toyota Tacoma was not involved in the initial collision, and that the Solara remains outstanding as the investigation continues.

Tragically, a second collision occurred moments later when Florence was run over by an orange, older-model Ford Crown Victoria traveling eastbound on Fairland Road. Authorities have since located and identified the driver and vehicle involved in the second collision.

Florence Chumbow was more than the circumstances surrounding her passing. She was a woman who lived her days with purpose, presence, and quiet grace. To those who knew her, Florence was a familiar face, a kind spirit, and a gentle soul whose life carried meaning beyond words. Her absence is deeply felt by family, friends, neighbors, and all who shared even a moment of her journey.

As detectives continue their work and seek public assistance to identify the driver of the Toyota Solara, Florence’s loved ones and community members are left to grieve, remember, and honor her life. Her story is a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the shared responsibility we all carry to look out for one another—especially on our roads.

May Florence L. Chumbow be remembered for the life she lived, the love she gave, and the quiet strength she carried. May her memory be a blessing, and may those who mourn her find comfort in shared remembrance, compassion, and hope for justice.

🕊️ Forever remembered. Forever loved. 🕊️

🕊️ In Loving Memory of William Darnell Gone Too Soon, Forever Remembered 🕊️

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we remember William Darnell, a 30-year-old beloved son, family member, and friend from Corbin, whose life was tragically cut short in a fatal crash on Interstate 75. His passing has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him, and a community now grapples with the pain of a life lost far too soon.

According to the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, the tragic incident occurred when a Nissan Altima, driven by William, collided with the rear of a tractor-trailer that was traveling in the middle lane of I-75. The impact was severe, and despite the response of emergency personnel, William was pronounced dead at the scene. The suddenness of his passing has sent waves of grief through Corbin and beyond.

In the aftermath of the crash, Laurel County deputies charged the tractor-trailer driver, 54-year-old Steven Jones, with DUI. Deputies reported that Jones admitted to using cocaine within 24 hours prior to the crash, a revelation that has added to the heartbreak and anger surrounding this senseless tragedy. As the investigation continues, loved ones are left seeking answers while mourning a future that will never be realized.

William Darnell was more than a name in a report or a statistic in a tragic incident. He was a young man with dreams, relationships, and a life full of potential. Those who knew him remember his presence, his spirit, and the moments—both big and small—that made him who he was. His life mattered deeply, and his loss is felt in countless ways by family, friends, and all who crossed his path.

As the community reflects on this heartbreaking loss, William’s memory serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving. One moment, one decision, can forever change countless lives. In honoring William, we also honor the importance of responsibility, awareness, and care for one another on our roadways.

William Darnell’s life, though far too brief, will not be forgotten. He will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, in shared memories, and in the enduring hope that his story inspires change and prevents future tragedies.

May William Darnell rest in eternal peace. May his family and friends find strength, comfort, and healing in the love that surrounds them, and may his memory forever be a blessing. 🕊️

🕊️ In Loving Memory of Henry Kevin “Hank” Mitchell

A Life of Quiet Strength, Service, and Enduring Love 🕊️

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we remember and honor Henry Kevin “Hank” Mitchell of Covington, Georgia, who passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of those who meant the most to him. Hank’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched, yet his legacy continues to shine through the values he lived by and the love he so freely gave.

Born and raised in Covington, Hank was a man defined not by loud words or grand gestures, but by quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and a generous heart. He believed deeply in showing up for others, often without seeking recognition. To know Hank was to know kindness, patience, and a steady presence you could always rely on.

Hank devoted much of his life to family and community, placing great importance on guiding and encouraging young people. He understood the power of mentorship and led by example, teaching life lessons through compassion, consistency, and humility. His influence on youth—whether through shared conversations, guidance, or simple acts of encouragement—left an indelible mark that will be felt for generations.

One of Hank’s greatest joys was fishing, a passion he eagerly shared with others. Time spent by the water was more than a hobby—it was a place of peace, reflection, and connection. Many will remember quiet mornings casting lines beside him, learning not just how to fish, but how to slow down, appreciate nature, and value meaningful moments.

Above all else, Hank was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather. His family was the center of his world, and his love for them was evident in everything he did. He leaves behind a legacy carried forward by his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren, who will forever treasure his wisdom, warmth, and unwavering support. His memory lives on in family traditions, shared stories, and the countless moments of love that defined his life.

Though Hank may no longer walk among us, his spirit remains present—in the lessons he taught, the lives he shaped, and the love he leaves behind. His life reminds us that true greatness is found in kindness, service, and the quiet ways we care for one another.

May Henry Kevin “Hank” Mitchell rest in eternal peace, and may all who mourn his passing find comfort in knowing his life was a blessing, his love enduring, and his legacy everlasting. 🕊️

A Shocking Afternoon in Toledo: Allegations That Left a Community Reeling

Toledo is grappling with troubling allegations following an incident that unfolded on January 11, leaving many residents stunned and deeply concerned for the safety of a young child.

According to police reports, Dericka Bratton, 21, and Tamicka Bratton, 20, both of Toledo, were taken into custody after officers say the two women left a 3-year-old child alone inside a vehicle while they allegedly carried out a burglary at a nearby home. Authorities state that the child was left in the car for an extended period, raising serious concerns about the child’s well-being and safety.

Investigators allege that while the child remained in the vehicle, the two women entered a residence where the situation quickly escalated. Police documents claim that the suspects became physically involved with the victim and others inside the home, turning what began as a burglary into a more volatile and dangerous encounter. The reports further allege that property damage occurred during the incident, including vandalism to the victim’s vehicle.

Adding another layer to the case, authorities say the suspects were personally acquainted with the victim, underscoring how conflicts rooted in familiarity can sometimes spiral into serious criminal matters. What might have been a private dispute, police suggest, escalated into actions that now carry significant legal consequences.

Both women now face multiple felony charges, including child endangering, aggravated burglary, and vandalism. They appeared in court Monday morning, where a judge set bond at $50,000 each. The court emphasized the severity of the allegations, particularly those involving the safety of a young child who had no ability to protect themselves.

Dericka Bratton and Tamicka Bratton are scheduled to return to court on January 21, where the case will continue through the judicial process. As with all criminal cases, the charges remain allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

For the Toledo community, this case serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly poor decisions can place innocent lives at risk. Many are hoping that the child involved is now safe and surrounded by care, and that justice—balanced with accountability and compassion—will ultimately prevail.

A Place at the Table for Everyone: EatWell Cafe Nourishes Bodies and Community in Downtown Toledo

Downtown Toledo is welcoming more than just a new place to eat—it’s embracing a new way to care for one another. On January 15, 2026, the EatWell Cafe officially opens its doors inside the Main Library, offering nutritious, thoughtfully prepared meals in a space designed to bring people together with dignity, kindness, and choice at the heart of everything it does.

EatWell Cafe operates on a participation-based model, ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial circumstance, has access to a wholesome meal. Patrons are invited to pay a suggested donation, contribute a little extra to help subsidize a meal for someone else, or volunteer their time in exchange for food. There is no pressure, no judgment—only an open invitation to participate in a way that feels right for each individual.

The menu centers on bowl-based meals, crafted with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Each bowl is designed to be nourishing, balanced, and satisfying, reflecting the cafe’s mission to support both physical well-being and local farmers and producers. Simple, flavorful, and intentional, the meals are meant to fuel not just the body, but also a sense of connection and care.

Located within the Main Library, EatWell Cafe is intentionally positioned as more than a dining spot—it is envisioned as an inclusive community hub. Visitors can enjoy a meal before diving into a book, meeting a friend, studying, or simply taking a moment of rest in a welcoming environment. The cafe’s presence reinforces the library’s role as a place of learning, access, and community support for all.

During its initial launch, EatWell Cafe will be open:

• Thursdays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Fridays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

As the cafe grows, organizers hope to expand both offerings and hours, guided by community participation and support.

EatWell Cafe stands as a beautiful reminder that food can be more than a transaction—it can be a bridge. A bridge between neighbors, between those who have plenty and those who need a little help, and between nourishment and belonging. As Toledo gathers around this shared table, EatWell Cafe invites everyone to come as they are, knowing there will always be a place for them.

In Loving Memory A Life Remembered, A Community in Mourning

The Lac du Bonnet community is united in sorrow following a tragic motor vehicle collision that claimed a precious life on January 9, 2026. At approximately 12:00 p.m., Lac du Bonnet RCMP responded to a fatal collision at the intersection of Highway 11 and Minnewawa Street, in the RM of Lac du Bonnet—an ordinary stretch of road that became the setting for an unimaginable loss.

According to authorities, a vehicle traveling west on Minnewawa Street entered the intersection and was struck by a semi-truck traveling north on Highway 11. The driver of the vehicle, a 78-year-old woman from Pinawa, was pronounced deceased at the scene. In a moment, a life rich with years, memories, and love was taken far too suddenly, leaving behind grieving family members, friends, and a community struggling to come to terms with the loss.

While the driver of the semi-truck, a 41-year-old man from Fannystelle, was not physically injured, the emotional weight of such a tragedy reaches far beyond those directly involved. Accidents like this ripple outward, touching countless lives and reminding us all of how fragile and precious each day truly is.

Though her name is not publicly shared, the woman lost in this collision is remembered as more than a statistic or a report. She was someone’s mother, grandmother, friend, neighbor, and loved one—a woman who carried 78 years of stories, experiences, and quiet moments that shaped the lives around her. Her absence leaves a silence that words cannot fully fill.

Lac du Bonnet RCMP, alongside an RCMP Forensic Collision Reconstructionist, continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. As that process continues, the community pauses to grieve, to reflect, and to hold close the importance of compassion, patience, and care on our roads and in our daily lives.

Today, hearts are heavy in Pinawa, Lac du Bonnet, and beyond. We remember a life lost, honor the years she lived, and extend heartfelt condolences to all who are mourning her passing. May her memory be a source of comfort, and may her loved ones find strength in the support of a community that grieves alongside them.

May she rest in peace, and may her life be remembered with love, dignity, and gentle remembrance.

In Loving Memory of James Derek Fowler A Gentle Soul Remembered with Love and Gratitude

St. Simons Island, Georgia, is quietly reflecting on the life of James Derek Fowler, a man whose presence meant more than words could ever fully capture. On January 10, 2026, James passed peacefully at his home, leaving behind a profound sense of absence and a legacy of love that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Formerly of Gainesville, Georgia, James carried his warmth, character, and quiet strength wherever life took him. He was the kind of person whose impact was not measured by volume or attention, but by sincerity, kindness, and the steady comfort he offered simply by being himself. His calm demeanor and thoughtful nature made others feel at ease, and his genuine care for people created bonds that endured across time and distance.

James had a way of making life feel simpler and more meaningful. He listened more than he spoke, offered encouragement without judgment, and showed up when it mattered most. Whether sharing quiet moments, thoughtful conversations, or laughter that came naturally in his presence, he left lasting impressions that will not be forgotten. His integrity, humility, and compassion defined him, and those qualities continue to inspire the lives he touched.

To his family and friends, James was a source of strength, reliability, and unwavering love. He valued connection deeply and cherished the relationships that shaped his journey. Though he lived a life marked by gentleness, his influence was powerful, leaving memories that will be carried forward with gratitude and tenderness.

As St. Simons Island and the many communities James called home remember his life, there is comfort in knowing that his spirit remains present in every shared memory, every lesson learned, and every act of kindness done in his honor. Though his physical presence is gone, his love endures, woven into the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

James Derek Fowler will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the peace, warmth, and quiet goodness he brought into the world. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing.

A Gentle Light Remembered: In Loving Memory of Katherine Baransky

PARK RIDGE, Ill. — With deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance, the Park Ridge community is grieving the tragic loss of Katherine Baransky, a 65-year-old woman whose life was cut short in a heartbreaking accident on Saturday morning. Her sudden passing has left family, friends, and neighbors mourning the loss of a cherished soul whose presence brought warmth and kindness to those around her.

According to Park Ridge police, the fatal incident occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of Cumberland Avenue and Peterson Avenue in the north suburbs. Katherine was struck by a vehicle in the early morning hours, a time when the day is just beginning and the streets are often quiet. Emergency responders were quickly called to the scene, but despite their efforts, Katherine sadly succumbed to her injuries.

While the investigation continues, the community is focused on remembering the life Katherine lived rather than the tragic way it ended. She was more than a victim of an accident—she was a woman known for her gentle spirit, her compassion for others, and the countless moments she shared with loved ones throughout her life. Those who knew her speak of her as someone who cared deeply, listened kindly, and left people feeling valued and seen.

Katherine’s passing serves as a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly ordinary moments can turn into unimaginable loss. As word of her death spread, an outpouring of grief and support followed, with many offering prayers, condolences, and messages of love to her family during this painful time.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her—in shared stories, treasured photographs, and the quiet moments when her absence is most deeply felt. Though her life ended far too soon, the impact she made and the love she gave will never fade.

As Park Ridge mourns this devastating loss, the community stands united in honoring Katherine Baransky, remembering her not for the tragedy that claimed her life, but for the life she lived and the kindness she shared. May she rest in eternal peace, and may her family find comfort, strength, and healing in the days ahead.

Forever Remembered: Honoring the Life of Anthony Eugene Smith

GREENVILLE, S.C. — With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Greenville community mourns the tragic and sudden loss of Anthony Eugene Smith, age 42, whose life was cut short in a devastating motor vehicle collision on Sunday afternoon. His passing has left family, friends, and all who knew him grappling with grief, disbelief, and an overwhelming sense of loss.

According to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office, the fatal crash occurred at approximately 1:55 p.m. on January 11, 2026, in the 200 block of Sulphur Springs Road. Emergency responders, along with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, were dispatched to the scene following reports of a serious two-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that the driver of one of the vehicles, later identified as Anthony, had tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Investigators determined that Anthony’s vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. Despite the swift response of emergency crews, his injuries proved fatal, and he was officially pronounced deceased at 2:02 p.m. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office has ruled the cause of death as blunt force trauma, classifying the manner of death as an accident. An external examination is scheduled for January 12, 2026, as part of standard investigative procedures.

While the investigation remains ongoing, the facts cannot lessen the heartbreak now felt by those who loved Anthony. He was more than a name in a report or a statistic in a tragic accident—he was a son, a friend, a loved one, and a presence that brought meaning and connection to the lives around him. His sudden passing serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly everything can change.

Those who knew Anthony remember him for the moments he shared, the laughter he brought, and the relationships he built throughout his life. His memory will live on in the stories told, the love he gave, and the lasting imprint he leaves on the hearts of his family and friends.

As the Greenville community comes together in mourning, thoughts and prayers continue to pour in for Anthony’s loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. May they find comfort in one another, strength in shared memories, and peace in knowing that Anthony will never be forgotten.

Rest in eternal peace, Anthony Eugene Smith. Your life mattered, your memory is cherished, and your legacy will live on forever.