Category: Uncategorized

In Loving Memory of Ernest Weathersby

With heavy hearts, family, friends, former teammates, students, and loved ones are mourning the passing of Ernest “EJ” Weathersby, a man whose life left an unforgettable imprint on everyone he encountered.

Tributes pouring in from across the country speak to the depth of Ernest’s impact. Known affectionately as “EJ” and “Memphis,” he was remembered as a mentor, coach, brother, cousin, and friend who carried joy, resilience, and authenticity wherever he went. Many shared that no matter the hardship he faced, Ernest met life with unwavering positivity, humor, and strength.

Ernest had a profound love for young people, especially the athletes and students he coached and mentored. Those close to him say he genuinely cared for every young man he guided, believing deeply in their potential and pushing them to be strong not just in sports, but in life. His influence extended far beyond the field, classroom, or gym.

Friends recalled Ernest as the life of every room — full of laughter, storytelling, and real conversations. He was fiercely loyal, protective of those he loved, and deeply devoted to his family, especially his daughter, whom many mentioned with heartfelt promises of continued support.

Despite enduring significant health challenges and personal struggles, Ernest never allowed his circumstances to define his spirit. Loved ones described him as a fighter who endured more than most, yet remained joyful, encouraging, and hopeful. Many believe his passing brings an end to a long, courageous battle.

As one tribute reflected, “Anyone in close proximity to EJ was his cousin.” That sentiment echoes throughout the countless messages — Ernest made people feel seen, valued, and connected.

Ernest Weathersby leaves behind a legacy of toughness, compassion, mentorship, laughter, and love. His memory lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the bonds he created.

The community extends its deepest condolences to his daughter, his mother, his sister, and his entire family during this incredibly difficult time.

Rest well, EJ. You fought the good fight. You will never be forgotten. 🕊️💜

Luis Ayala Phoenix, AZ Obituary: Family Seeks Support After Tragic Fatal Accident

The Ayala family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Luis Ayala, who tragically passed away following a fatal accident in Phoenix, Arizona. His sudden death has left family and loved ones devastated as they struggle to cope with an unimaginable loss.

According to relatives, Luis passed away on February 1, 2026, in Phoenix. The unexpected nature of the accident has deeply shaken his family, who describe him as a loving brother, devoted son, and loyal friend whose presence brought warmth and strength to those around him.

Luis was remembered for his caring spirit, strong sense of family, and the genuine kindness he showed to everyone he encountered. His passing has created an immeasurable void in the lives of his siblings, relatives, and friends, who are now left cherishing the memories he shared with them.

As the family grieves, they are also facing the emotional and financial challenge of transporting Luis’s body to Denver, Colorado, where most of his relatives reside and where they hope to lay him to rest surrounded by loved ones.

In a heartfelt message, the family shared their plea for support:
“Please family and friends, we need your help. Anything that comes from your heart helps in this very devastating and difficult situation. My brother Luis Ayala has passed away and has left us broken. Any support means everything to us. Thank you, and God bless you all.”

Tributes continue to pour in from friends and extended family, honoring Luis for his compassion, loyalty, and the lasting impact he made during his life.

Funeral arrangements in Denver will be announced once transportation plans have been finalized.

Las Cruces Woman Charged After Newborn Found Dead in Portable Toilet at Burn Lake

A 38-year-old Las Cruces woman has been arrested and charged after authorities say her newborn baby girl was found dead inside a portable toilet at Burn Lake.

According to the Las Cruces Police Department, Sonia Cristal Jimenez is charged with one count of intentional child abuse resulting in death, a first-degree felony.

Police say the investigation began around 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, when staff at Memorial Medical Center contacted authorities after Jimenez arrived at the hospital appearing to have recently given birth but without an infant. Medical staff raised concerns due to her condition.

Investigators learned from Jimenez’s boyfriend, who drove her to the hospital, that the couple had been at Burn Lake earlier that evening, where Jimenez reportedly used a portable toilet. Officers responded to the area, located off Burn Lake Road, and discovered the newborn baby girl inside the holding tank of a portable restroom. Las Cruces firefighters recovered the infant, who was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Police allege that Jimenez gave birth to a live baby, cut the umbilical cord, and placed the infant into the holding tank, where she drowned.

An autopsy conducted Monday at the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator in Albuquerque determined the baby was alive when she was placed inside the portable toilet. The examination revealed the infant had breathed and swallowed the blue chemical liquid commonly used in portable restroom sanitation. The substance was found in the baby’s trachea, lungs, and stomach, confirming the baby inhaled and ingested the liquid while alive. The official cause of death was ruled drowning.

Investigators stated that Jimenez’s boyfriend told police he was unaware she had given birth, and authorities do not anticipate filing charges against him.

Jimenez was taken into custody Wednesday morning following the issuance of an arrest warrant. She is currently being held without bond at the Doña Ana County Detention Center. The investigation remains ongoing.

James Van Der Beek, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star and Beloved Actor, Dies at 48

James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his breakthrough role as Dawson Leery on the hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek, has died at the age of 48, his family confirmed in a statement.

Van Der Beek’s passing on February 11, 2026, follows a public battle with colorectal cancer, which he revealed in 2024 after a routine medical screening. In a message shared on social media, his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, said he “passed peacefully this morning” and faced his final days with “courage, faith, and grace.”

Born James David Van Der Beek on March 8, 1977, in Cheshire, Connecticut, he rose to prominence in the late 1990s as the earnest, aspiring filmmaker at the center of Dawson’s Creek, which aired for six seasons and became a defining series for a generation of viewers.

Over a career spanning more than three decades, Van Der Beek appeared in television and film, including roles in Varsity Blues, The Rules of Attraction, How I Met Your Mother, CSI: Cyber, and the Disney Junior animated series Vampirina. He also competed on Dancing with the Stars, reaching the semifinals in 2019.

Van Der Beek shared six children with his wife, Kimberly, and was known for his warmth, humor, and engagement with fans. In recent years, he openly discussed his cancer journey and used his platform to raise awareness about screenings and health.

His family’s statement acknowledged the depth of his love for humanity and asked for privacy as they grieve their “loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

James Van Der Beek’s work left an enduring mark on television and film, and he will be remembered for the characters he brought to life and the lives he touched both on and off the screen.

In Loving Memory of Nathan Smiling

The Breaux Bridge community is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Nathan Smiling, 60, who died early Monday morning following a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 West near milepost 128 in Iberville Parish.

According to authorities, Smiling was traveling westbound in a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado when the vehicle became disabled in the roadway. Shortly thereafter, a westbound box truck struck the disabled vehicle. Smiling, who was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, was ejected from the truck and pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the box truck sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

Law enforcement officials stated that impairment is suspected, and toxicology samples have been collected as part of the ongoing investigation. The Louisiana State Police continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Nathan Smiling is remembered by family, friends, and neighbors as a valued and well-known member of the Breaux Bridge community. His unexpected passing has left loved ones grieving a life lost far too soon.

The Louisiana State Police and the community extend their deepest condolences to Smiling’s family and all those affected by this tragic loss.

In Loving Memory of Dearrius Weston, 21

The Arkansas and Brevard communities are mourning the tragic loss of Dearrius Weston, 21, who died on February 10, 2026, following a workplace accident at the Transylvania County Landfill.

According to the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Weston was working as a contract employee during the final phase of a six-acre landfill expansion project at 500 Howell Road in Brevard. During the course of his duties, Weston was pinned to the ground by a large piece of equipment.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and attempted life-saving measures, but Weston was pronounced dead at the scene.

Transylvania County Sheriff Chuck Owenby described the incident as “a tragic and unfortunate accident” and extended heartfelt condolences to Weston’s family, friends, and coworkers during this difficult time.

Dearrius Weston is remembered by those who knew him in both Arkansas and North Carolina as a hardworking, dedicated young man whose presence left a lasting impact. His sudden passing has left loved ones grieving the loss of a life full of promise.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident remains ongoing.

In Loving Memory of Dylan Sanphy

Jesse Strang, 18, Dies Following Tragic Events at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School

Obituary | Death | Cause of Death

Jesse Strang, 18, died on February 10, 2026, in connection with the tragic events at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where nine people lost their lives and dozens were injured. Authorities have confirmed that the individual responsible for the shooting also died. While some media reports have identified that individual as Jesse Strang, officials have not publicly released full identifying details, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Jesse was born in 2007 and spent his formative years in Canada. Like many young people, his life included family relationships, schooling, personal interests, and the challenges of growing up during a period marked by rapid social, cultural, and technological change. Those who knew him understood him within the context of youth — a time often shaped by complexity, vulnerability, and transition.

The events of February 10 have left an enduring and painful impact on the Tumbler Ridge community and beyond. The loss of innocent lives has brought immeasurable grief to families, friends, classmates, and educators. In reflecting on Jesse’s death, it is impossible to separate it from the profound harm and loss experienced by the victims and their loved ones.

This tragedy has renewed difficult but necessary conversations surrounding mental health, school safety, access to support systems, and the importance of early intervention. Communities across the region are grappling with a wide range of emotions — grief, anger, confusion, and an urgent search for understanding.

As authorities continue their investigation, many questions remain unanswered. What is clear is that February 10, 2026, will be remembered as a day of profound loss and lasting consequence. The focus moving forward remains on honoring the victims, supporting survivors, and fostering healing within the community.

Jesse Strang is remembered as an 18-year-old whose life ended amid circumstances that have irrevocably changed many others. May all those affected by this tragedy find strength, accountability, and a path toward healing in the difficult days ahead.