In Loving Memory of Michael “Mikey” J. Schustrich, Sr.
December 28, 1994 – July 28, 2025

With broken hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the untimely passing of Michael “Mikey” J. Schustrich, Sr., age 30, of Garrettsville, Ohio, who left this world far too soon on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Mikey was born on December 28, 1994, in Chardon, Ohio, to his loving parents Robert and Barbara (née Sheppard) Schustrich, Jr. He was raised in Windham Township, where he spent his formative years surrounded by family, friends, and the small-town values that helped shape the man he became.

A proud graduate of James A. Garfield High School, Class of 2013, Mikey was known for his infectious laughter, unshakeable loyalty, and easygoing personality. In school, he was the kind of friend who could always be counted on — the one who could light up a room, lift a heavy heart, or share a joke exactly when you needed it most. His spirit was magnetic, and his kindness left a lasting impression on those who crossed his path.

Throughout his life, Mikey wore many hats — a devoted son, a protective brother, a loyal friend, and most importantly, a loving father. His greatest joy came from being “Dad” to his children. Mikey embraced fatherhood with open arms, and he poured his heart into raising his kids with the same strength, humor, and compassion that he was known for. His eyes would light up when he talked about them, and he often spoke of his dreams for their future with fierce love and pride.

Mikey had an unmatched work ethic and wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. Whether on the job or lending a hand to a friend, he approached every task with determination and a can-do attitude. His strong sense of responsibility, mixed with his laid-back nature, made him someone people relied on — and he never let them down.

Outside of work and family, Mikey loved the simple things in life: good music, cold drinks, fast cars, and time spent outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, bonfires, four-wheeling, and just cruising back roads with the windows down. He had a love for the Cleveland Browns, no matter the season, and never missed a chance to root for the home team — win or lose.

But more than any hobby or passion, Mikey will be remembered for the way he made people feel. He had a huge heart and an unmatched sense of humor that could lift spirits in an instant. He listened without judgment, gave without expecting anything in return, and loved with everything he had.

Michael “Mikey” J. Schustrich, Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. He will be missed beyond measure by all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved children, who were the light of his life; his parents, Robert and Barbara Schustrich, Jr.; siblings, extended family members, and many dear friends who will carry his memory forward.

As we mourn the loss of Mikey, we also choose to celebrate the vibrant life he lived. Though his time here was far too short, the impact he made will be felt for years to come. His story, his laughter, and his love live on in every heart he touched.

A memorial service to honor and remember Mikey’s life will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, we invite all who knew and loved him to share their memories and photos, and to hold his family close in thought and prayer.

Rest easy, Mikey. Your legacy will live on in your children, your family, and the countless lives you made better just by being you.

In Loving Memory of Sabine Talaugon: A Life of Grace, Courage, and Unwavering Love

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt reverence that we honor the life and memory of Sabine Talaugon — a cherished soul who touched countless lives with her warmth, strength, and quiet grace. Sabine’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to walk beside her in this life. Though words can scarcely capture the depth of her spirit, we remember her today not only with sadness, but with immense gratitude for all that she gave to this world.

Sabine was a woman of unwavering compassion, quiet resilience, and thoughtful presence. She possessed a unique ability to make people feel truly seen and heard — whether in moments of joy or hardship, Sabine was the kind of person you turned to for comfort, wisdom, or simply a listening ear. Her presence was grounding, her smile reassuring, and her love for those around her boundless.

To know Sabine was to witness a life lived with purpose and care. She carried herself with humility and strength, never seeking the spotlight, yet always illuminating the space around her. Her acts of kindness were often quiet and unassuming, but their impact was powerful and enduring. From the smallest gestures of encouragement to her unwavering support of loved ones, Sabine’s love was a constant and steady force.

A devoted daughter, a loyal friend, and a guiding light to many, Sabine’s legacy lies not in grand achievements, but in the deeply personal and heartfelt ways she touched the lives of those around her. She built community through empathy, connected hearts through kindness, and left behind a trail of warmth that continues to ripple through the lives she’s influenced.

In times of challenge, Sabine exhibited a grace and fortitude that inspired everyone who witnessed her journey. She faced life’s uncertainties with dignity, never letting hardship define her, and always holding fast to her values of compassion, hope, and quiet faith. Those who stood beside her during these times often found that it was she who gave them strength.

As we mourn Sabine’s passing, we also celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind — one of love, resilience, and the kind of gentle courage that doesn’t seek recognition, but leaves a lasting impression on the soul. Her memory will live on in the stories we tell, the lessons she taught us, and the love we continue to share with one another.

To Sabine’s family, friends, and loved ones, we extend our deepest sympathy and love during this time of loss. May you find comfort in the knowledge that Sabine’s spirit remains alive in the hearts of so many. Her light has not gone out; it lives on in every act of kindness inspired by her memory, and in every life she helped lift.

Rest in eternal peace, Sabine Talaugon. You will be missed beyond measure, but never forgotten. Your life was a gift to this world — and your legacy, one of enduring love.

In Loving Memory of Kieran Metcalfe: A Creative Spirit, A Cherished Friend, A Lasting Legacy

It is with the deepest sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our beloved friend and colleague, Kieran Metcalfe, passed away on Tuesday after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Kieran was not only a gifted creative, a pioneering thinker, and an integral part of our team — he was also a deeply kind, humble, and generous soul whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone privileged to work alongside him.

Kieran’s journey with us began in the late 2000s, when he joined the fledgling Resound Worship group as a songwriter. Even in those early days, it was clear that he brought with him something special — a quiet brilliance, a heart for worship, and a talent for crafting lyrics and melodies that resonated deeply. Several of his songs found a home with us, each one a testament to his thoughtful faith and artistic voice.

But Kieran’s contributions extended far beyond songwriting. As he moved into freelance graphic and web design, he became instrumental in shaping the digital presence of both Resound and Jubilate. He didn’t just build websites — he built experiences that connected communities, supported worship leaders, and carried our mission into new spaces. His work laid the foundation for how we reach and serve others today.

In recent years, Kieran brought the Song & Hymn Writers Foundation into the digital age, developing a much-needed rights and royalties management system that streamlined and strengthened our operations. Then, in a landmark move that reflected both his technical expertise and visionary spirit, he created Songclub, the collaborative songwriting platform that now hosts our vibrant 12 Song Challenge community. It has become a home for creativity, encouragement, and spiritual growth — a living expression of Kieran’s heart for empowering others through technology and connection.

As Kieran moved from freelance to becoming a full-time, in-house developer with the foundation, he quickly became a much-loved and respected member of our staff. His depth of insight, his quiet humor, and his unwavering dedication made him more than a colleague — he became family. For nearly two decades, whether as a contractor, a creator, or a teammate, Kieran was at the very heart of everything we did. His fingerprints are everywhere, not just in the code or design, but in the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and grace that defines our work today.

There was still so much more we dreamed of building with him — new tools, new challenges, new songs. And while the weight of this loss is heavy, we are deeply grateful for the part of the journey we were able to share. Kieran gave so much of himself to this community — his time, his talent, his heart — and in doing so, he helped shape something enduring.

As we move forward, we will do so with Kieran’s legacy in our hands and his vision in our hearts. We will continue to build on the foundations he helped lay, carrying forward the work that meant so much to him, and to all of us. In every song sung, in every connection made through the platforms he created, his presence will continue to inspire and uplift.

To Kieran’s family and loved ones, we offer our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Please know that you are held in our prayers and surrounded by a community who shares in your grief and honors Kieran’s remarkable life. His impact was profound, and his memory will live on in every corner of our work.

Rest in peace, Kieran. Thank you for everything. You will be missed more than words can say, and your light will continue to shine through the music, the tools, and the people you helped bring together.

In Loving Memory of Kevin Columb Lynch, Oxnard, California
1962 – 2025

With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kevin Columb Lynch, a beloved resident of Oxnard, California, who tragically lost his life at the age of 63 in a devastating crash in Monterey County. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning and involved a Tesla vehicle that, according to preliminary reports, lost control, collided with a tree, and subsequently ignited.

The tragic accident is currently under active investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Authorities are working diligently to determine the exact circumstances that led to this heartbreaking incident. As they continue to gather evidence and analyze the scene, the family and community await answers with great pain and patience.

Kevin was more than a name in a headline — he was a kind-hearted soul whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Born in 1962, Kevin Columb Lynch grew up with a quiet strength and a spirit of curiosity. He was known for his warm demeanor, his thoughtful words, and his unwavering commitment to the people he loved.

Over the years, Kevin built a life rooted in love, community, and service. Friends describe him as a man of integrity — someone who could be counted on in times of need, and who always made room for laughter and connection. Whether sharing stories over coffee in downtown Oxnard, lending a helping hand to neighbors, or spending time with family, Kevin lived with intention and compassion.

His sudden and tragic departure has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends. As they grapple with this unimaginable loss, loved ones have begun to gather in remembrance — not just to mourn, but to celebrate a life that was richly lived. Kevin’s legacy is reflected in the people who knew and loved him, in the values he held dear, and in the kindness he extended to others without hesitation.

The Lynch family has asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult chapter. They are grateful for the overwhelming support and condolences from friends, neighbors, and members of the broader Oxnard and Monterey County communities. A memorial service will be announced in the coming days, offering those who knew Kevin an opportunity to honor his memory and say their goodbyes.

As the California Highway Patrol continues its investigation, the hope remains that a clearer understanding of what caused this tragic accident will come to light. In the meantime, the focus remains on remembering Kevin — not for how he died, but for how he lived.

May Kevin Columb Lynch rest in eternal peace. His spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his memory will never be forgotten.

Dodie Osteen, Beloved Mother of Pastor Joel Osteen and Co-Founder of Lakewood Church, Dies at 91

It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Dodie Osteen, beloved matriarch of the Osteen family, who died today, July 30, 2025, at the age of 91. Dodie was the devoted wife of the late John Osteen, co‑founder of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, and the cherished mother of Joel Osteen, current senior pastor. Her legacy of faith, resilience, and love has inspired millions around the world.

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🌸 A Life of Faith, Healing, and Legacy

Born October 22, 1933, Dodie Osteen co‑founded Lakewood Church with her husband, John, on Mother’s Day, May 10, 1959, beginning in what was once a small, abandoned feed store. She became a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith following a near‑death prognosis in 1981, when doctors told her she had just weeks to live due to liver cancer—only for her to experience what many regard as a miraculous healing through persistent prayer and belief.

Throughout her life, Dodie served as a quiet spiritual pillar—praying daily for family, congregation members, and strangers alike. She authored books, led by example in faith, humility, and perseverance, and remained active in ministry well into her 90s.

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A Family Guided by Her Strength

As a mother to Joel, Paul, Lisa, Tamara, and April, Dodie was described by her son Joel as the “heart and soul” of their family. Her quiet confidence helped shape his path toward leadership following the passing of John Osteen in 1999. Her influence is woven deeply into the ministry that millions rely on for hope and spiritual encouragement.

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A Legacy of Compassion and Hope

Dodie’s legacy extends far beyond her immediate family. Her testimony of healing inspired countless people in the face of adversity and illness. Leaders from across the Christian community—such as Reverend Franklin Graham—have honored her as “a woman of great faith and a true warrior of the gospel” whose life exemplified God’s healing power and grace.

Even after her miraculous recovery, Dodie dedicated herself to prayer ministries, often offering solace and encouragement to those suffering. She embraced her experiences—including overcoming polio in childhood and cancer later in life—as opportunities to demonstrate faith in action.

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The Family’s Loss, a Global Farewell

Joel Osteen has publicly shared that her death is “the saddest moment of my life,” expressing deep heartbreak over losing a mother whose wisdom, kindness, and devotion shaped him personally and pastorally. The entire world of Lakewood Church mourns alongside him, honoring Dodie’s decades of service and her powerful spiritual influence.

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Honoring Her Memory

As her family and many around the globe grieve this enormous loss, Dodie’s legacy will continue in the ministries she helped build—through Lakewood Church’s outreach, the written testimony she shared, and the countless lives shaped by her example. Plans for memorial services and tributes will be announced by the Osteen family in due time.

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Resting in Everlasting Peace

Dolores “Dodie” Pilgrim Osteen lived her 91 years with purpose, prayer, and perseverance. She faced life’s trials with unwavering faith and used her life as a testament to hope. May her soul rest in perfect peace. Her legacy endures—as a mother, a mentor, and a beloved servant of many.

In Loving Memory of Nicole Fisher: A Life of Light, Love, and Legacy

It is with deep sadness and profound respect that we remember the life of Nicole Fisher, a beloved daughter, cherished friend, devoted sister, valued colleague, and an enduring light to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Nicole’s untimely passing leaves a space in the lives of countless individuals that can never be filled, but her memory endures—a shining beacon of grace, strength, and unwavering kindness.

A Life Rooted in Love and Compassion

Nicole lived her life with intentionality and heart. From an early age, she radiated warmth and compassion that left lasting impressions on everyone she encountered. Whether it was through her infectious laugh, her gentle wisdom, or the way she could make anyone feel seen and heard, Nicole had a unique gift of connection. She made people feel important, valued, and loved—no matter who they were or what walk of life they came from.

She was a daughter who brought immeasurable pride and joy to her parents, always leading with empathy and honoring her family with her integrity and compassion. As a sister, Nicole was a steady presence—a confidante, a protector, and a friend through every season of life. Her siblings recall a childhood filled with laughter, late-night talks, and unconditional support, a bond that remained unbreakable into adulthood.

A Friend to Many, A Stranger to None

Nicole’s friendships were deep and sincere. She was the kind of person you could call at 3 a.m., knowing she’d be there with open arms and a listening ear. She celebrated others’ successes as if they were her own and stood strong beside her friends during their most challenging moments. Her loyalty was quiet but fierce, and her presence had a way of grounding those around her.

She left behind a circle of friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts—holding onto the moments, the inside jokes, and the simple joys of time spent together. In every gathering, in every moment of shared laughter or comfort, Nicole’s presence will still be felt.

A Professional Mark of Excellence and Integrity

In her professional life, Nicole was respected not only for her talent and skill but for the integrity and empathy she brought to her work. Colleagues admired her work ethic, her sharp intellect, and her ability to lead with both strength and compassion. She didn’t just do her job—she uplifted those around her, often serving as a mentor and confidante.

Her loss is deeply felt in her workplace, where she was more than just a team member—she was a source of inspiration, support, and light.

A Legacy That Lives On

Though her time on this earth was far too brief, Nicole’s impact is eternal. She taught us what it means to truly care, to live with purpose, and to lead with love. Her legacy is not measured in years, but in the lives she touched and the hearts she shaped.

Her memory lives on in quiet moments of reflection, in shared stories, and in the many lives she made better simply by being herself. For her family, Nicole will forever be their guiding star; for her friends, the soul who brought light in their darkest times; and for her community, a reminder of the good that still exists in this world.

Final Reflections

As we mourn the loss of Nicole Fisher, we also celebrate the gift of her life. We carry her legacy forward by loving harder, listening more deeply, and showing up for each other with the same open-heartedness that Nicole showed the world every day.

May we honor her by living in the light she so effortlessly radiated. May her memory remind us to be kind, to stay grounded in love, and to live fully—just as Nicole did.

Rest in peace, dear Nicole. You are profoundly missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Tragic Columbia City Crash Claims Two Lives, Leaves Four Injured

COLUMBIA CITY, IN — The Indiana State Police (ISP) have confirmed that two people were killed and four others injured in a devastating two-vehicle crash that occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 29, in Columbia City.

The collision happened at approximately 2:40 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 9 (SR 9) and County Road 500 North (CR 500 N) — a rural yet heavily traveled section of roadway in Whitley County.

According to a statement released by ISP on Wednesday, a passenger car carrying six individuals was traveling southbound on SR 9 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed the center line and veered into the northbound lane, directly into the path of an oncoming vehicle.

The car collided head-on with a black pickup truck towing a trailer, driven by a 51-year-old Columbia City man, who sustained injuries but survived the impact.

Two Lives Lost

Tragically, the driver of the passenger car, 17-year-old Helmin Ruiz of Huntington, and one of the passengers, 40-year-old Trinidad Vasquez of Fort Wayne, were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. Authorities confirmed that next of kin for both victims have been notified, and grief counselors are being made available to support their families and the broader community.

Four Others Hospitalized

The four remaining passengers in the vehicle were quickly transported to nearby hospitals by emergency responders. Their injuries range from minor to severe, according to ISP, and they continue to receive treatment and evaluation. Their names have not been released to the public at this time due to privacy concerns and the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.

The driver of the pickup truck was also injured in the crash but is expected to recover. There has been no indication of fault or impairment at this time.

Community in Mourning

The sudden loss of Helmin Ruiz, a high school student from Huntington, and Trinidad Vasquez, a Fort Wayne resident and father, has left a deep void in their families and communities. Friends, classmates, and relatives are mourning the tragedy and remembering their loved ones for their warm personalities and strong work ethic.

“Helmin was a bright young man with so much promise. He loved his family and had dreams of becoming an engineer,” said a family friend. “Our hearts are shattered.”

Trinidad Vasquez, described as a devoted family man, was remembered for his strength and compassion. “He worked hard to support his family and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need,” said one colleague.

Ongoing Investigation

State Road 9 was closed for several hours on Tuesday as investigators from the ISP’s Crash Reconstruction Team, alongside local emergency agencies, processed the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led the vehicle to cross into oncoming traffic, including examining road conditions, vehicle status, and potential distractions or health-related factors.

ISP is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or the moments leading up to it to come forward with information that may aid the investigation.

A Call for Safety and Vigilance

The crash serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and attentiveness while driving, particularly on rural highways where speeds are higher and visibility can be limited. The Indiana State Police and local officials are encouraging drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, especially when transporting multiple passengers.

As Columbia City and surrounding communities grapple with the emotional aftermath of this tragic event, vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the lives lost and to support the families of the victims.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of those involved,” said ISP in their statement. “We will continue to work diligently to uncover the cause of this heartbreaking crash.”

Funeral arrangements for Helmin Ruiz and Trinidad Vasquez are expected to be announced in the coming days. Grief counseling services are being made available through local schools and churches.

In Loving Memory of Nyay Meh: 37-Year-Old Woman Found Deceased in Cedar River Near Austin, Minnesota

AUSTIN, MN — The Mower County community is mourning the tragic death of Nyay Meh, a 37-year-old woman who was reported missing nearly a week before she was found deceased in the Cedar River. Her body was recovered on Saturday, July 26, 2025, near the 18000 block of Highway 105, just south of Austin, Minnesota, bringing a heartbreaking end to a multi-agency search effort.

According to Mower County Sheriff Steve Sandvik, Meh had been reported missing on July 20 by the Austin Police Department. As the days passed without any confirmed sightings or contact, concern grew among her family, friends, and the broader Austin community.

On Saturday, search and recovery crews located a body in the river during a search operation coordinated by local and state authorities. The remains were later identified as Nyay Meh.

The Austin Fire Department, members of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and the Southeast Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office assisted with the recovery and initial investigation.

Investigation Underway

Sheriff Sandvik stated that at this time, there is no indication of foul play in Meh’s death. However, a thorough investigation remains ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death. Authorities have not yet released details about how long Meh had been in the river or the results of any preliminary autopsy.

“We are working carefully and respectfully to provide answers,” said Sandvik. “Our priority is ensuring her family receives the truth and closure they deserve.”

A Grieving Family, A Mournful Community

News of Meh’s death has deeply saddened the local community. Friends described her as a warm, gentle soul who brought light to those around her. Nyay Meh was part of the diverse and growing immigrant community in Austin, where she was known for her kindness, strong faith, and generosity.

“She had a quiet strength and a beautiful heart,” one community member shared. “She always checked on others, even when she had her own struggles.”

Sheriff Sandvik extended heartfelt condolences, saying, “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Nyay Meh during this difficult time.”

Call for Compassion and Patience

In the wake of this tragedy, community leaders are asking for support, compassion, and patience as investigators work to uncover more information. Mental health and grief resources are being made available to community members, especially those close to Meh, who are navigating this sudden and devastating loss.

Nyay Meh’s death is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of sorrow. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her story will remain a call for unity and support in the face of heartbreak.

The Mower County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who may have seen or spoken with Nyay Meh between July 20 and July 26 to contact their office with any information that might assist the ongoing investigation.

As the community gathers to remember and honor Nyay Meh’s life, her family asks for privacy and continued prayers in this time of immense grief.

In Loving Memory of Henry “Crickett” Anthony Vela (1991–2025)

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Henry Anthony Vela, affectionately known to many as “Crickett”, who tragically lost his life in a vehicle collision on July 26, 2025, at the age of 34. The news of his sudden and untimely passing has sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the wider community who were blessed to know and love him.

Born in 1991, Crickett was a man who carried with him a rare combination of light, laughter, loyalty, and quiet strength. Those who knew him remember his infectious smile, his boundless energy, and the way he had of lighting up any room he walked into. Whether you knew him for a day or a lifetime, Crickett had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and appreciated.

A Life Full of Heart

Crickett lived with a full heart and a genuine love for the people around him. He had a natural charisma that drew others in — not just because he was fun to be around, but because he was real. He loved deeply and fiercely, always putting others before himself and showing up when it mattered most. If you needed help, he was there. If you needed a laugh, he had one ready. And if you needed someone to just sit and listen, Crickett made time — always.

He was known for his loyalty to his family and friends, the kind of loyalty that never wavered. Whether it was a childhood friend or a new acquaintance, Crickett gave of himself freely and without expectation. His circle was wide, not because he sought popularity, but because people gravitated to the kindness and authenticity he exuded.

A Beloved Son, Brother, Father, and Friend

To his family, Crickett was a pillar — a source of love, laughter, and pride. As a son, he brought endless joy and love into his parents’ lives. As a brother, he was both a protector and a best friend — the kind of sibling who knew how to joke, how to fight, and, more importantly, how to forgive. As a father, Crickett found his greatest purpose. His children were his heart, and he never hesitated to let the world know how much he loved them. He was proud of the father he was becoming and poured his soul into making sure they knew they were loved, supported, and cherished.

As a friend, he was unforgettable. Loyal to the end, honest to the core, and always down for a laugh or a serious conversation when you needed one. Crickett had that rare ability to lift people up without ever making them feel small. He was a rock for so many, and his absence is already being felt in profound ways.

A Legacy That Lives On

Though his time here was far too short, Crickett leaves behind a legacy that will echo for years to come. In the lives he touched, the hearts he healed, and the countless memories he helped create, his spirit lives on. He taught us all — through both words and actions — to love harder, laugh louder, and never take a moment for granted.

His passing is a reminder of how fragile life is, and how important it is to hold our loved ones close. In our grief, we also find gratitude — for the time we had, the lessons he gave, and the example he set just by being himself.

Honoring His Life

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Crickett’s life will be announced in the coming days. Family, friends, and all who knew him are welcome to attend and share stories, memories, and the profound impact he made on their lives. The family extends their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and condolences during this incredibly difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a fund being established in Crickett’s name to support his children and honor his commitment to their future — something he held closest to his heart.

Forever in Our Hearts

Henry “Crickett” Anthony Vela was a son, a father, a friend, and a fighter — not in the physical sense, but in the way he lived every day with love, loyalty, and heart. His voice may be silent now, but his memory speaks volumes in all who carry a piece of him with them.

Rest easy, Crickett. You were truly one of a kind, and you will be missed more than words could ever express.

FOUR FOUND DEAD IN LAKE COUNTY AS ABANDONED INFANT CASE UNFOLDS; MULTI-AGENCY INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

DYER COUNTY, TN — A wave of shock and grief has swept through West Tennessee as the heartbreaking discovery of four bodies in rural Lake County has now been linked to the deeply troubling case of an infant abandoned earlier this week in Dyer County. A multi-agency investigation is underway, with authorities working around the clock to piece together what they are calling a complex and tragic case of disappearance and suspected foul play.

Timeline of Events: A Family Disappears

The alarm was first raised on July 29, 2025, when family members reported that four individuals had vanished without a trace:

• Adrianna Williams, mother of the infant

• Matthew Wilson, father of the infant

• Courtney Rose, Adrianna’s mother (the child’s grandmother)

• Braydon Williams, Adrianna’s younger brother (the child’s uncle)

According to loved ones, none of them had been seen or heard from since that morning. Matthew’s mother reported her last contact with him came at 6:43 AM, when he called to say he was leaving his overnight shift at Big River Steel and heading home.

By 3:11 PM, a disturbing 911 call came into the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office. A resident on Old Highway 20 near the Tigrett community reported a baby had been left strapped in a car seat in their front yard, with no sign of who dropped her off. The child was found physically unharmed, quickly identified as Adrianna and Matthew’s daughter, and placed under immediate medical care and protection.

What began as a puzzling case of child abandonment has now escalated into a full-scale investigation after the bodies of four individuals — believed to be the missing adults — were discovered on the outskirts of Lake County late Tuesday evening. Although official identification is pending autopsy and next-of-kin notification, authorities have stated the remains appear to match the description and clothing of the missing family members.

Disturbing Discovery and Ongoing Search for Answers

Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), and the FBI, are now involved in a coordinated investigation. The area where the bodies were found has been cordoned off as a crime scene, and forensic teams are processing evidence.

Authorities have not yet released the cause or manner of death but confirmed that the deaths are being treated as suspicious, and homicide is not being ruled out. The fact that the baby was safely abandoned rather than harmed has raised as many questions as it answers.

Vehicles Sought in Connection

Law enforcement continues to seek public assistance in locating or tracking movements of the following vehicles that may be connected to the victims:

• A late ’80s Ford truck with a white stripe

• A 2008 black Dodge Charger

• A small white SUV (possibly a crossover model)

Investigators are asking for any dashcam footage, sightings, or surveillance videos from the area of Old Highway 20, Highway 78, and surrounding rural roads between 6 AM and 4 PM on July 29. They are also urging anyone with knowledge of the family’s plans or who may have spoken with them before their disappearance to come forward.

A Community in Mourning, A Call for Justice

The Dyer County and Lake County communities are stunned and grieving as they process the news. Vigils are already being planned, and local churches are offering grief counseling and support services to the many people affected. The family of the victims described Adrianna, Matthew, Courtney, and Braydon as close-knit, caring, and “the last people who would ever choose to disappear or abandon their child.”

“This is not who they were,” said a family spokesperson. “They loved that baby more than anything. We are devastated and we are demanding answers.”

The infant, whose name is being withheld for privacy, remains safe and is currently under protective custody. Authorities have confirmed that arrangements are being made for her long-term care.

Public Urged to Come Forward

If you have any information that could assist in this investigation — no matter how small — please contact the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office at (731) 285-2802, your local law enforcement agency, or dial 911 immediately. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s tip line.

This case is still developing, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days as autopsy results, forensic analysis, and digital records are examined.

We will continue to update this story as new information becomes available.