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In Loving Memory of Howard Douglas Winstead

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we remember the life and legacy of Howard Douglas Winstead, a beloved musician, cherished friend, and pillar of the Carolina Beach Music community, who tragically passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning following a devastating crash along Interstate 95 in Harnett County, North Carolina. He was 67 years old.

Howard Winstead was more than a performer—he was a living embodiment of the rhythm, soul, and spirit that defined Carolina Beach Music. As the lead vocalist and trumpeter for the legendary Band of Oz, he dedicated decades of his life to bringing joy, energy, and unforgettable melodies to audiences across the region and beyond. His voice carried stories, his trumpet spoke emotions, and his presence on stage lit up every room he entered.

Born with a passion for music, Howard’s journey was one marked by commitment, talent, and an unwavering love for entertaining others. Whether performing on stage before a lively crowd or connecting personally with fans, he had a rare gift of making people feel something deep and genuine. His music was not just heard—it was felt. Through every note and lyric, he created memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved his work.

In the quiet hours before dawn, tragedy struck. Howard was traveling northbound on Interstate 95 when his vehicle was involved in a collision with a tractor-trailer tanker. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel and their determined rescue efforts, his injuries proved too severe, and he was pronounced deceased at the scene. The suddenness of his passing has left a void that words can scarcely express.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Howard was known for his kindness, humility, and warm spirit. He was a man who valued connection—whether through music, friendship, or simple conversation. To his family, he was a source of strength and love. To his fellow band members, he was not just a colleague but a brother. To his fans, he was an icon whose music formed the soundtrack of countless cherished moments.

His passing is not just a loss to those who knew him personally, but to an entire musical community that has been shaped by his contributions. The Carolina Beach Music scene has lost one of its brightest stars, but his legacy will continue to echo through every song played, every dance enjoyed, and every memory shared.

As we mourn, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life that touched so many and left the world a little brighter through music and love. Though Howard Douglas Winstead may no longer walk among us, his voice will forever sing, his trumpet will forever sound, and his spirit will forever inspire.

Rest in peace, Howard. Your music lives on. 🎺

In Loving Memory of Ashleah C. Hayes

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we remember and honor the life of Ashleah C. Hayes, a beloved woman whose life was tragically taken in a traffic homicide incident in the early hours of April 10, 2026. At just 40 years old, Ashleah’s passing has left a deep and painful void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

On that quiet morning, at approximately 12:09 a.m., what began as an ordinary night turned into an unimaginable tragedy. Officers responding to a well-being check along U.S. Highway 27, just south of Singletary Park, made a heartbreaking discovery. Ashleah was found in the roadway near the intersection of U.S. Highway 27 and English Road, having suffered fatal injuries after being struck by a vehicle. Despite the swift response, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Preliminary reports indicate that Ashleah was crossing the highway when she was hit by a gray Hyundai sedan traveling northbound. In a deeply distressing turn of events, the driver fled the scene, leaving behind not only a damaged vehicle, but a grieving family and a community searching for answers and justice.

Ashleah was more than a victim of a tragic incident—she was a daughter, a friend, a neighbor, and a soul full of life. Those who knew her will remember her kindness, her strength, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her presence was a light that cannot be replaced, and her memory will forever be cherished by those who loved her.

For hours, the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 27 were closed as investigators worked diligently to piece together the circumstances surrounding this devastating loss. Yet, no amount of investigation can ease the pain of losing someone so suddenly and senselessly.

Today, we not only mourn Ashleah’s passing, but we also stand in hope—hope that the person responsible will come forward, that justice will be served, and that her loved ones will find some measure of peace in the truth.

We urge anyone with information to do the right thing. Even the smallest detail could help bring closure to a grieving family. Silence only deepens the pain, but truth has the power to begin healing.

As we remember Ashleah C. Hayes, let us honor her life by holding our loved ones a little closer, by choosing compassion, and by remembering that every life is precious and irreplaceable.

Rest in peace, Ashleah.

Your life mattered. Your memory will live on.

You will never be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Alex Taylor & Ogee Meeski 🕊️🕊️

With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we come together to remember and honor the lives of Alex Taylor and Ogee Meeski, two men whose lives were tragically taken in a devastating act of violence on the night of Thursday, April 9, 2026.

On that heartbreaking evening, officers responded to a call in the 5600 block of Gatesworth Avenue in Country Club Hills, where they discovered Alex and Ogee suffering from apparent gunshot injuries. Despite the response of first responders, both men were pronounced deceased at the scene—leaving behind grieving families, shocked friends, and a community searching for answers.

Alex Taylor and Ogee Meeski were more than victims of a senseless tragedy. They were individuals with stories, with loved ones, with dreams and futures that deserved to be lived. Their lives mattered deeply, and their absence now leaves a silence that cannot be filled.

In moments like these, words often fall short. The pain of losing not one but two lives in such a sudden and violent way is unimaginable. Families are left to carry the weight of grief, friends are left holding onto memories, and a community is left shaken. Yet even in sorrow, we remember the light they brought into the lives of others—the laughter shared, the bonds formed, and the moments that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew them.

As the investigation continues, with the St. Louis County Police Department now leading efforts to seek justice, we hold onto hope—that answers will come, that those responsible will be held accountable, and that peace may one day find its way to the hearts of those mourning.

At this time, we ask everyone to lift up the families and loved ones of Alex Taylor and Ogee Meeski in prayer. May they find strength during this unimaginable loss, comfort in cherished memories, and support from those around them.

If you have any information that could assist investigators, please come forward. Even the smallest detail could help bring clarity and justice to this tragic situation. You may contact the St. Louis County Police Department or reach out anonymously through CrimeStoppers.

Though their lives were cut short, Alex Taylor and Ogee Meeski will never be forgotten. Their names will live on in the stories shared, in the love they gave, and in the hearts they touched.

May they both rest in eternal peace. 🕊️🕊️

In Loving Memory of Choncy Moore 🕊️

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we pause to honor and remember the life of Choncy Moore, a beloved son, friend, and member of the Cedar Grove community, whose life was tragically taken on the night of Thursday, April 9, 2026.

Choncy Moore, just 34 years old, was a man whose presence left an imprint on those who knew him. His life, though cut short in such a heartbreaking and violent way, was filled with moments, memories, and connections that will never be forgotten. He was more than a name in a headline—he was a person with dreams, with laughter, with people who loved him deeply and unconditionally.

On that tragic night, Choncy was found in his vehicle in the parking lot of a business along West 70th Street, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of those who responded, he was pronounced gone at the scene. The loss has left a painful void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the wider Shreveport community. No words can truly capture the weight of such a loss or the grief that follows.

As the investigation continues, we are reminded of how fragile life is and how quickly it can be taken. Choncy’s passing marks not just another statistic, but a devastating chapter in the lives of those who knew and cherished him. He was someone’s child, someone’s friend, someone who mattered.

Those who knew Choncy will remember his spirit, his personality, and the moments they shared with him—whether big or small. It is in those memories that his legacy will live on. Though his time here was far too short, the impact he made will not be erased.

During this incredibly difficult time, we ask everyone to keep Choncy Moore’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers. Grief is a heavy burden, and support—whether through kind words, prayers, or simply being present—can mean more than we often realize.

May justice be served, may peace find his loved ones, and may Choncy Moore rest in eternal peace. 🕊️

In Loving Memory of Detective Randy Hoppert

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we honor the life and sacrifice of Detective Randy Hoppert, a devoted public servant, loving husband, father, and hero who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in Porterville, California.

On that fateful Thursday, what began as a routine service of an eviction notice turned into a heartbreaking tragedy. Responding with courage and commitment, Detective Hoppert stood alongside his fellow officers, answering the call to protect and serve. In the face of sudden danger, he acted with the same bravery and dedication that defined his entire career. Though he was rushed to the hospital after being struck by gunfire, he sadly succumbed to his injuries—leaving behind not only a grieving department, but a devastated family and community.

Detective Hoppert was far more than a badge and uniform. He was a man of heart, compassion, and unwavering integrity. Sheriff Mike Boudreaux described him not only as a “very good cop,” but as a fun-loving, confident individual who deeply cared about the people around him. He was the kind of man who made others feel safe, who showed up when it mattered most, and who carried the weight of responsibility with quiet strength.

At home, Randy was a devoted husband and a proud father. He leaves behind a wife who is four months pregnant, a growing family who will forever carry his legacy, and children who will grow up knowing their father was a true hero. He was the kind of dad who cheered at games, shopped at local stores, and shared in the everyday joys of life—simple moments that now hold immeasurable meaning.

His courage extended beyond this tragic day. In 2021, Detective Hoppert was recognized with a Letter of Commendation by the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office for saving the life of a 2-year-old girl. Drawing from his training with the U.S. Navy, he acted swiftly and selflessly, helping ensure the child made a full recovery. That moment stands as a powerful testament to the kind of man he was—always ready to act, always ready to help, always putting others first.

Today, we remember Randy Hoppert not just for how he died, but for how he lived. A life marked by service, bravery, kindness, and love. A life that touched countless others, both in uniform and beyond. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who hear his story.

As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also stand in gratitude—for his service, his sacrifice, and the example he set. May his family find strength in the love that surrounds them, and may his memory forever remain a beacon of honor and courage.

Rest in peace, Detective Randy Hoppert.

Your watch may have ended, but your legacy lives on forever.

In Loving Memory of Sammy Jennings

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we remember and honor the life of Sammy Jennings, a name now carried in grief, love, and remembrance by those who knew him and those who have come to learn of this tragic loss.

The community in Fentress County, Tennessee, has been shaken by a developing and deeply troubling situation—one marked by fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak. Authorities have confirmed an active search for a suspect, identified as Jolina Upchurch, in connection with a Firearm attack . As law enforcement continues their urgent efforts to locate a person considered armed and dangerous, the weight of the tragedy grows heavier with the loss of Sammy Jennings.

Details surrounding the circumstances of the shooting remain limited, and officials have not yet released full information regarding what led to this devastating event. What is known, however, is that a life has been impacted in a profound and irreversible way. Behind every headline is a human story—and Sammy Jennings was more than a name in a report.

Sammy Jennings was a person who lived, loved, and mattered. To his family, he was someone irreplaceable—a source of connection, of memories, of shared moments that now become treasures held close in the quiet spaces of grief. To his friends, he was a presence that brought familiarity, comfort, and meaning. His life, though now overshadowed by tragedy, was filled with moments that defined who he truly was—moments that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

As the situation unfolded, residents in the area of Whippoorwill Lane, Quail Run, and Crooked Creek were urged to remain vigilant, to stay indoors, and to prioritize safety. Schools implemented precautionary measures, placing students and staff on soft lockdown to ensure protection while law enforcement searched tirelessly for the suspect. These actions reflect the seriousness of the situation—but they also highlight the collective concern of a community trying to protect one another in the face of uncertainty.

In times like these, emotions run deep—fear, anger, confusion, and overwhelming sadness. But amidst it all, there is also unity. A community coming together. People looking out for one another. And in the center of it all, the memory of Sammy Jennings, whose life reminds us of the importance of compassion, of connection, and of cherishing every moment we are given.

To the family of Sammy Jennings, there are no words that can truly ease the pain of such a loss. But may you find strength in the love that surrounds you, in the support of your community, and in the memories that will forever remain a part of you. May those memories bring comfort in the days ahead.

To the community, may you continue to stand together—supporting one another, staying vigilant, and holding onto hope as this situation unfolds.

And to Sammy Jennings—your life mattered. Your story matters. You will not be forgotten.

May you rest in peace. Your memory will live on in every heart you touched.

In Loving Memory of Eric Olesen

The Lacey Township community is mourning the tragic loss of Eric Olesen, 39, of Forked River, who passed away in a devastating motor vehicle incident  on the morning of Wednesday, April 8th, 2026. The news of his untimely death has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling, as they remember a life cut far too short.

According to the Lacey Township Police Department, emergency responders were called to the intersection of Lake Barnegat Drive North and Haines Street at approximately 7:52 a.m. Reports indicated that a vehicle had driven through a residential fence and collided with a tree. Upon arrival, first responders from Lanoka Harbor EMS and Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics found Eric deceased at the scene. Fortunately, no other individuals were injured during the crash.

The Lacey Township Police Department Fatal Accident Support Team (FAST), alongside the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, responded immediately to assist in the investigation. Preliminary findings revealed that Eric was traveling eastbound on Haines Street when he turned onto Lake Barnegat Drive North, lost control of his vehicle, and drove off the roadway. The car crashed through the fence of a residence, entered the backyard, and ultimately struck a tree, ending his life.

Eric Olesen will be remembered not for the tragedy that took him, but for the person he was—someone whose presence touched the lives of those around him. He was a son, a friend, and a valued member of his community, known for his warmth, generosity, and the quiet strength he brought to every situation. Friends and family recall his kindness, his sense of humor, and his unwavering willingness to help others, traits that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Eric’s memory will live on in the stories shared by those who loved him, in the laughter he inspired, and in the legacy of care and compassion he left behind. His passing is a reminder of the fragility of life, yet also a celebration of the impact one person can have on a community.

The Lacey Township Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding this fatal crash. Officer Tyler Walsh (#118) is leading the inquiry and encourages anyone with information to come forward by calling (609) 693-6636 ext. 2714 or emailing twalsh@laceypd.org.

To the family, friends, and neighbors of Eric Olesen, may you find solace in the memories you shared, in the love and support of your community, and in the knowledge that his life, though brief, was meaningful and deeply cherished.

Rest in peace, Eric Olesen. Your life mattered, and your memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved you.

In Loving Memory of Sammy Jennings

The Fentress County community is grieving the tragic loss of Sammy Jennings, whose life was abruptly ended under circumstances that continue to shake the hearts of family, friends, and neighbors. While authorities are actively investigating the incident, it has been confirmed that Sammy was shot in a violent event that has prompted an urgent manhunt for the suspect.

The Fentress County Sheriff’s Office is currently searching for Jolina Upchurch, a woman considered armed and dangerous, in connection with the shooting. Law enforcement has issued warnings to residents in the areas of Whippoorwill Lane, Quail Run, and Crooked Creek to remain indoors, lock their doors, and avoid the suspect. Described as approximately 5’5” with short blonde hair and possibly wearing a red t-shirt, she is on foot, and the public has been strongly advised not to approach her, but to immediately report any sightings to authorities.

In the wake of this tragic event, Fentress County Schools took immediate precautionary measures to protect students and staff. Allardt Elementary and York Elementary are on a soft lockdown, meaning classes continue inside the buildings but no one is permitted outside. Additional security measures have been implemented, and updates are being shared through the school messaging system.

Though the circumstances are still under investigation, what is clear is the profound loss experienced by all who knew Sammy Jennings. Sammy was more than the headlines; he was a beloved member of his community, a cherished friend, and a devoted family member. His life was filled with laughter, love, and kindness, and he had a way of making those around him feel seen and valued.

In moments like these, communities come together—not only to seek justice, but to remember and honor the lives that have been lost. Sammy’s memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, through the stories shared, the smiles remembered, and the love that surrounds his family in this time of grief.

The pain of losing someone to violence is immeasurable, but so too is the impact of a life well-lived. Sammy Jennings’ legacy will not be defined by the tragedy that took him, but by the warmth, joy, and love he brought into the lives of everyone who knew him.

To the family, friends, and neighbors mourning Sammy, may you find strength and comfort in one another, and in the knowledge that his life mattered deeply. And to Sammy—though your journey here was tragically short, your memory will endure, a light that cannot be extinguished.

Rest in peace, Sammy Jennings. You will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

In Loving Memory of Lori Perez

The Phoenix community is grieving the tragic loss of Lori Perez, a woman whose life was taken  in a senseless act of violence early Thursday morning in the West Valley. Lori’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and neighbors, as they struggle to come to terms with the sudden and shocking circumstances surrounding her death.

According to Phoenix Police, the incident occurred around 1 a.m. near 107th Avenue and Indian School Road, when officers responded to a “shots fired” call in the neighborhood. Upon arrival, they discovered Lori with at least one gunshot wound. Despite the swift response from authorities and first responders, she succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind grief that will be felt far beyond her immediate family.

Lori Perez was more than a name in a report—she was a daughter, a friend, a member of the community, and someone whose presence brought warmth and light to those around her. Friends describe her as compassionate, kind, and always ready to offer support to others. Her life was filled with moments of care, laughter, and connection, and it is those memories that now sustain those who loved her in this difficult time.

The West Valley community has been shaken by the tragedy, reminding us all of the fragility of life and the suddenness with which it can be taken. As the investigation continues, authorities are working diligently to understand the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking event, seeking justice and answers for Lori and her loved ones.

To Lori’s family, words cannot convey the depth of sorrow felt by all who knew her. May you find comfort in the love and memories you shared, and in the support of the community surrounding you. To friends and neighbors, may you continue to honor her life by holding onto the joy and compassion she brought into your lives.

Though Lori Perez’s life ended far too soon, her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be remembered for her kindness, her spirit, and the love she gave so freely. Her loss is a reminder to cherish every moment and to hold our loved ones close.

Rest in peace, Lori Perez. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Nelson Lee Graves

With hearts weighed down by sorrow, we remember and honor the life of Nelson Lee Graves, whose life was tragically taken in a motorcycle crash on the evening of April 8 in Stallings, North Carolina. His passing has left an undeniable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him—a loss that words can hardly begin to capture.

According to authorities, the devastating collision occurred around 6:30 p.m. at the intersection of Stallings Road and Guion Lane. Nelson was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle when a Toyota Tacoma entered the intersection against a red light, striking him. In those critical moments that followed, bystanders rushed to his aid, performing life-saving measures with urgency and compassion until paramedics arrived and continued efforts to save him. Despite all that was done, Nelson succumbed to his injuries.

While the details of the accident remain under investigation, and no charges have been filed, what remains undeniable is the heartbreak left behind—a life lost too soon, a story interrupted, and a family forever changed.

Nelson Lee Graves will be remembered not for the tragedy that claimed him, but for the life he lived and the person he was. He was more than a motorcyclist on the road that evening—he was a son, a friend, a loved one whose presence brought meaning and joy to those around him. He carried with him a spirit of freedom, strength, and individuality—qualities often reflected in those who find peace on the open road.

To those who knew Nelson, he was someone you could count on. Whether through quiet strength or a kind word, he had a way of making people feel supported and understood. His life was built on connections—on moments shared with family, laughter among friends, and the simple but powerful act of being present for others.

Motorcycling, for many, is more than a hobby—it is a passion, a sense of identity, a place where the noise of the world fades away. For Nelson, it was likely a source of peace and clarity, a reflection of the way he chose to live—free, bold, and unapologetically himself.

The loss of Nelson is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be, how quickly everything can change in a single moment. Yet even in grief, there is remembrance. There are stories that will continue to be told, memories that will be held close, and a legacy of love that will not fade.

To his family, may you find comfort in the outpouring of support surrounding you. May the love Nelson gave you carry you through the difficult days ahead. To his friends, may you continue to honor his memory by living fully, loving deeply, and cherishing every moment.

Though his journey here has ended, Nelson’s spirit lives on—in the hearts he touched, in the lives he impacted, and in the memories that will never be taken away.

Rest in peace, Nelson Lee Graves. You were taken too soon, but you will never be forgotten.