Earth Felt The Wound

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Jeffrey Kaplan, 61

Died January 29, 2021.

Bishop Brady High School, Concord, NH

Mathematics, Science, Lacrosse Coach

Local news:

The Bishop Brady High School community in Concord is mourning the loss of one of their own. Jeff Kaplan was a beloved teacher and coach at the school.

Kaplan died over the weekend due to complications from COVID-19, he was 61, but his legacy lives on far beyond the halls of Bishop Brady.

A native New Yorker, it was a job at Plymouth State University that brought Kaplan to New Hampshire. There, he coached offensive and defensive line, which started a decades-long coaching and teaching career in the Granite State.

“it would make me incredibly proud to see my dad on the sideline,” Kaplan’s son Matt Kaplan said.

Matt Kaplan is one of Jeff’s eight children. He said he and his siblings did not mind sharing their father with the hundreds of students he coached over the years.

“I know how great of a parent Jeff Kaplan was, and for other kids to experience not only his knowledge but again, sort of his lessons and his ideologies behind how to do things,” Matt Kaplan said. “It makes you proud as a son.”

Kaplan coached for several schools including Bishop Brady, John Stark, Pembroke Academy and Franklin High School where he started the school’s wrestling program.

“I always admired having him on the side with me when we coached wrestling together,” Former colleague Cam Sinclair said. “Because my voice, when I yelled to get my wrestler’s attention, my voice would get high and squeaky, but Jeff had this huge booming voice. So, I would yell something, and he would repeat it, so they could hear it. So, we worked well together.”

A big guy, with a big voice, but also a big heart. Someone who understood his students and knew how to lead.

“He was this kind of guy that made the kids feel good about themselves,” Former colleague Craig Kozens said. “He was demanding and knowledgeable. Just a great-hearted guy.”

Dwayne Berry, 65

Died January 19, 2021.

Robert E. Lee High School, Montgomery, AL

Football Coach

Local news:

Dwayne Berry, 65, started working at Robert E. Lee High as an ROTC instructor and a football coach in 2002. About seven years later when he landed a job with the Department of Veteran Affairs, he left teaching but didn’t leave behind his team.

“When he started coaching, he just got really close to the coaches and players to the point that he didn’t want to leave,” his daughter, Brittany Berry-Johnson, said. “He loved it. It was one of his biggest pride and joys.”

The longest-tenured coach on Lee’s staff, Berry dedicated nearly two decades to the Generals before dying Jan. 19 after fighting for more than a month to overcome the impacts of contracting COVID-19.

In his unexpected death, he joined a tragic list that weighs over the high school. The Lee community, which refers to themselves as a ‘FamiLee,’ has endured the loss of several staff members and students in recent years. In two months, Lee’s Assistant Principal Ennis McCorvey III and basketball coach Rodney Scott also died due to COVID-19. McCorvey and Berry had been best friends and were members of the same fraternity, Berry’s daughter said.

“There are so many people who have been devastated by his loss because he was the person who would help anybody. He helped so many students, so many kids over the past years,” Berry-Johnson said. “He was motivating. He was a great mentor and great friend.”

A dedicated husband, father and grandfather, Berry retired as a master sergeant in the Air Force after 25 years of service. He was a sports fanatic — a longtime Cowboys and Alabama State University fan, who recently started rooting for Alabama, too, since watching some of his Lee players start their collegiate career there.

“He was a very loving man,” Berry-Johnson said. “He didn’t meet any strangers.”

She described her father as a dependable man who loved his family and loved to put a smile on their faces. He was known as ‘Pop Pop’ to his grandchildren.

When he tested positive for COVID-19 in early December, he called his daughter to ask what to expect since she’d contracted the virus during the summer.

She’d gotten through it, and his family had no doubt he would, too. He’d always been healthy, active and athletic.

“He said he was feeling extremely weak and fatigued, but that was pretty much it at first,” she said.

The next week though, Jacinta Berry found her husband on the floor and called for an ambulance. He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit on Dec. 18.

His vital signs were good, but he’d had asthma and his lungs were suffering.

“The virus attacked his lungs really bad and he was on a ventilator,” Berry-Johnson said. But despite that, “We had hope. They kept saying he’s doing really good, it was just his lungs.”

Things were looking up, with doctors saying Berry was stable enough to be moved out of the ICU. The morning before his transfer though, the Berry family was told they needed to hurry to the hospital as their dad’s heart rate and blood pressure fluctuated into dangerous territory.

“That whole day we were just on pins and needles like, ‘Come on Dad, we need you to come through,’” Berry-Johnson said.

He died just before 10 p.m. — his wife of nearly four decades sent home without him. He was a jovial man, she said.

The past few weeks, their home has been unwelcomely quiet.

“It’s very devastating,” Berry-Johnson said of her dad’s death. “We were in shock. We didn’t see anything like this happening. My dad is a fighter so we really thought he was going to fight through this. And he did fight for weeks, he just didn’t make it.”

More than her family, she recognizes the pain his death has caused throughout the community.

“A lot of people are saying they are going to truly miss him. He was that person that a lot of people depended on,” she said. “My dad really, really just loved being a helping hand to everyone, and I’m sure my dad wouldn’t want anyone to be sad and upset about him passing. I’m sure he’d say stay true to themselves and do the work that God put them on this earth to do.”

To those who knew him, she asked “keep his legacy going. … Continue to say his name. And look over us because this is hard for me and my family.”

Rodney Scott

Died December 17, 2020.

Robert E. Lee High School, Montgomery, AL

Basketball Coach

Local news:

Rodney Scott, the head coach of Robert E. Lee High girls basketball, died on Thursday.

Montgomery Public School Superintendent Ann Roy Moore confirmed Scott’s death Thursday night. MPS released a statement regarding Scott’s “sudden” death.

“Coach Scott will be greatly missed. His commitment to his team and school was felt throughout our school district. Our hearts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” Patrick Fenderson, MPS District Athletic Director, said in a press release.

Scott started at Lee as a varsity assistant and a junior varsity coach for the Generals’ boys teams. For the past seven years, he led the girls program. He was an educator who wasn’t afraid to spend his own money on his players. Some players even referred to Scott as “Dad.”

“He genuinely cared about people,” Lee athletics director Tyrone Rogers said. “… There’s nothing you could say about Coach Scott that would get him mad. He was kind of a gentle giant, loved by so many people.”

MPS also announced that counseling services are being provided to students and staff.

Scott’s son, Rod, died in 2016 in a car crash on the interstate traveling to watch a basketball game in Birmingham. Scott had committed to playing for Jacksonville State University and helped lead Lee to a Central Regional finals appearance.

It’s been particularly challenging for Lee High School in recent years with several deaths of students, including athletes. In 2018, former star quarterback Shaquille Johnson was fatally shot in his home. In May, Jamari “Chop” Smith, who had committed to play football for UAB and led Lee to a state basketball title, drowned in an Auburn lake.

“(Coach Scott) affected so many kids’ lives in a positive way,” Rogers said. “Just something about him that made people gravitate toward him. … I pray for his family, those who loved him and knew him. … We lost one of our good soldiers.”

Russell Milligan, 56

Died February 10, 2021.

Center Grove High School, Greenwood, IN

Chemistry, Softball

Obituary:

Russell H. Milligan, age 56, of Greenwood, IN, passed away on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at Community South Hospital in Indianapolis.

Russ was born in Escanaba, MI to James and Margaret Milligan. He was a 1982 graduate of Concord High School in Goshen, IN and a 1986 graduate of Wabash College where he earned a degree in Biology. Russ started his teaching and coaching career in Frankfort, IN. He then left Frankfort in 1990 to become a chemistry teacher and assistant football coach at Center Grove High School. Russ has taught Chemistry at Center Grove High School for 31 years and has been the Varsity Girls Softball coach for 27 years. He will forever be remembered for his blunt honesty, his love of teaching and love of high school athletics. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and many students. To honor his memory, please always remember, “Life is pretty simple.”

Survivors include his wife Alisha M. (Lemons) Milligan; parents, James and Margaret Milligan of Chesnee, SC; sons, Jacob Russell Milligan of Lander, WY and Alex Milligan of Indianapolis; brothers, James Milligan (Katrina) of Sevierville, TN and Scott Milligan (Michelle) of Belfast, ME; and many beloved friends and students.

Due to the pandemic, the family will have a private family gathering on Saturday, February 13 at Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service and Crematory-Greenwood Chapel. A celebration of life will be held later this spring to commemorate Russ’ life and celebrate his love of Center Grove Trojan Softball.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The United States National Park Service, https://www.nps.gov/getinvolved/donate.htm

Patricia Waters, 58

Died January 7, 2021.

John E. Riley Elementary School, South Plainfield, NJ

Pre-kindergarten

Obituary:

Patricia (Campanelli) Waters, 58, passed away at JFK Medical Center in Edison on Thursday, January 7, 2021 after complications from COVID-19. Born in Plainfield to the late John and Ann (Fugman) Campanelli, Patti has been a lifelong resident of South Plainfield where she and her family have deep roots.

Patti is a graduate of the South Plainfield Class of 1980 she went on to earn her degree in Economics at Rutgers University. She began her career as a Pre-K teacher in 1986, here in her hometown and has left a lasting impression on many of the children and families she has taught. As a Preschool teacher, Patti spent most of her career working for the South Plainfield Board of Education at Future Stars, and most recently working at Riley Elementary School Pre-K.

She is a member of the NJEA. She was a member of the SPHS Marching Band Music Boosters. She loved to read mystery novels, do crafting, scrapbooking, decorating the house for every holiday, going to the beach, being pampered at the nail salon, watching Hallmark movies, beating her husband at mini golf, watching reality shows, watching her children play sports and attend marching band competitions. Patti leaves behind her husband; Scott; son, Matthew and daughter, Stephanie. Also surviving is her Father-in-law Thomas Waters, her sister-in-law Sharon McCabe (Waters), husband Bernard McCabe, nieces Heather Leavy (McCabe) and husband Thomas Leavy, Shannon McCabe and nephew Kevin McCabe. She also leaves behind her loving friends and students. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the families’ desire of safety, Patti’s funeral will be private. A public memorial service will be held at a later date.

Bill Cosper, 62

Died January 30, 2021.

Lake Dallas High School, Corinth, TX

Football Coach

Obituary:

Billy Jack Cosper Jr, 62, of Denton, Texas, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2021.

Bill was born on October 20th, 1958, at St. Paul Hospital in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from Sunset High School in 1977 and went on to Stephan F Austin State University, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Bill played for four years on the football team, where he received all-conference recognition all four years. He continued on to play for the Atlanta Falcons in 1981 and 1982. He married the love of his life, Renee Reddin, in 1983, and they had their first child Derek Cosper in 1987. Bill accepted his first coaching job in 1991 at Stephen F Austin State University, and in 1992 he went on to coach at Valdosta State University in Georgia. They had their second child, Raquel, in 1997. In his 26 years of coaching & teaching career, Bill spent time at Adamson High School, Newman Smith High School, Sam Houston High School, Richland High School, Kearns High School in Utah, and Lake Dallas High School. Bill was not only a football coach but a mentor, father figure, and a molder of young men. He embodied the famous quote, “A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.” And he changed many, many lives throughout his career.

Bill is preceded in death by His father, Billy Jack Cosper Sr, his mother Saralyn Ruth Renfrow, his sister Vickie Lynn, and his stepfather Homer Lee Renfrow Jr.

Bill is survived by his wife of 37 years, Mary Renee Cosper, son Derek Cosper, daughter Raquel Blades, son-in-law Marc Blades, brother Rick Cosper, and many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Coach Cosper Scholarship Fund at the
following link: Coach Cosper Scholarship Fund, https://www.lakecitiesed.com/

Melissa Sheats, 49

Died February 5, 2021.

South Atlanta High School, Atlanta, GA

Office Clerk

Local news:

An Atlanta Public Schools high school office clerk passed away three weeks into her battle with COVID-19.

Melissa Sheats was a wife and mother of two sons, her husband cried as FOX 5’s Aungelique Proctor began talking to him.

“She fought and I helped her fight but as the days went on, it got unbearable for her,” Ricardo Sheats said.

Mr. Sheats says his wife was dedicated to her job and had even been working in the building this school year, while the students were learning virtually.

“She loved it. She is a people person. I’m going to work. I am going to work and I would say , are you sure?, her husband recalled.

Mr. Sheats said his wife had a heart condition and was very conscious about wearing her mask. But on January 15, her last day working at the school, the 49-year-old called him and said she didn’t feel well.

“She called me and said she needed to go to urgent care. The results came back that Saturday, she was positive for COVID.”

Mr. Sheats says Melissa fought as long as she could.

“She was hurting real bad and she kept saying she was scared and her breathing almost stopped,” he recalled.

On January 24, she went to the hospital with COVID-19 symptoms and never came out. Her death leaves her family devastated and her husband afraid to leave the house.

“Honestly speaking we need to shut this city down, we might not be able to shut the state down, but we should start with the city because this is real, ” Mr. Sheats said emphatically.

“Thirty-two years and now I got to watch TV and my wife is part of the COVID death numbers. I didn’t want a memory like this here,” he concluded.

Atlanta Public Schools released the flowing statement:

“In alignment with our protocols and out of an abundance of caution, all faculty and staff at South Atlanta High School will return to teleworking and continue to engage students through remote virtual learning beginning Friday, February 4th and ending Wednesday, February 10th. During this time, the building will undergo a deep cleaning and the District will continue to refine and enforce its health and mitigation strategies. In working to keep our students and staff safe, the District had previously slowed the pace of return to in-person learning to provide more time to intensify and add to our current mitigation strategies, and we have implemented a comprehensive COVID-19 testing strategy.”

Michael Wilson, 35

Died January 31, 2021.

Cuyama Valley High School, New Cuyama, CA

Seventh Grade, Basketball Coach

Obituary:

Michael Grant Wilson passed away at 35 years of age on January 31, 2021 while being medically transported to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

Michael was born in Santa Maria and grew up in New Cuyama, California. He has lived in Bakersfield, California for the last 17 years. Michael moved to attend college at California State University, Bakersfield where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and minors in political science, religious studies and economics. Michael also earned a Master of Science from Purdue University Global with a degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Michael started his teaching career in 2010, leaving the Cuyama School District to work for Kaplan Higher Education Corporation in Bakersfield, California. In 2014, Michael returned to his stomping grounds of Cuyama to teach and coach.

Michael is survived by his loving Wife of 7 years Krista, two-year-old Daughter Maybelle, and three dogs Doc, Ringo, and Zeppelin all of Bakersfield, California. His Mother Angela Wilson and Sister Megan Wilson of New Cuyama. One Brother Brian Wilson, his wife Esperanza, and Son Emerson Grant of Reno, Nevada. Grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, in laws, colleagues and friends.

A Zoom celebration of life to honor Michael will be held on February 20, 2021 at 2:00pm. Please send contact information to receive an invitation to CelebratingMikeWilson@gmail.com. The family has set up the “Donald and Michael Grant Wilson scholarship fund.”

Donations may be sent to Cuyama Valley High School, 2300 Highway 166, New Cuyama, California 93254.

Jimmy Carino, 62

Died February 9, 2021.

Stoneham High School, Stoneham, MA

Tennis Coach

Obituary:

CARINO, James, It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 James Carino passed away due to complications caused by COVID-19. “Jimmy” was born in Medford on June 16th, 1958 and raised in Somerville until the family moved to Stoneham when Jimmy was nine years old. He graduated from Stoneham High in 1976 and then from Northeastern with a major in Political Science. He married the love of his life Kathy Gehring in 1989. They welcomed their son Ryan in 1993 and then “the twins” Will and Julia in 2000. Jimmy was a devoted and loving husband and father.

Jimmy dedicated his time and talent to Stoneham Public Schools; he was a fixture in the high school. Throughout his career, Jimmy worked his tech magic on every school computer, chrome book, projector, microphone and, or website― there wasn’t one machine he didn’t touch. His real magic was in building relationships with just about every student. As the senior class advisor, he created lasting memories for generations of students through proms, awards
ceremonies and graduations, but his masterpiece was the Carnival Ball. 30 years of the 100-year old tradition happened because of Jimmy. As amazing as he was inside the school, he was a record setter on the field. Jimmy was known by all as “Coach” Carino, coaching the Girls and Boys Tennis teams as well as Boys Soccer. His talents and passion helped bring home the State Championship wins for the Boys Soccer teams in 2002, 2004, and 2005. He was recently
inducted into the Stoneham High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Jimmy was a great chef, taught by his beloved Ma, and his joy was creating celebrations big and small for family and friends. They over-flowed with delicious food and endless laughter but they were really about spending time with those he loved. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Kathy, his cherished children Ryan James, Julia Mary, and William Francis. He also leaves behind his dear father, Francis J. Carino, and his late wife, Jimmy’s mother, Gemma, his brother John
Carino and his wife Frances, and sister Sharon Searing and her late husband Eddie. He was the beyond cherished son-in-law of Edward and Mary Lou Gehring and brother-in law of Michael Gehring and his wife Cami, and Annmarie and her husband David Bulgarelli. He adored his 24
nieces and nephews. To Jimmy’s countless best friends, colleagues, former players and students, each and every one of you were as special to him as he was to you.

Family and friends are kindly invited to gather and share memories with the family at Stoneham High School on Sunday, February 14, 2021 from 12:00 – 4:00pm. Masks must be worn at all times and social distancing must be observed. A Private Funeral Mass Celebrating James Eternal Life will be held on Monday, February 15, 2021 in St. Patrick’s Church, 71 Central St., Stoneham at 10 am. Our family is crushed that we cannot welcome everyone and so we hope you can attend James funeral by using the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/41844874

In late Spring or early Summer, an outdoor celebration to honor his life and legacy will be held at which time we look forward to being all together again.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the James Carino Memorial Fund. Contributions can be made at PayPal.me/jamesacarinomemorial/

These donations will be used to honor his memory and the values he stood for.

Ty Scroggins, 49

Died February 10, 2021.

DeSales High School, Louisville, KY

Football Coach

Local news:

Ryan Bringhurst remembers a crowded room when he interviewed in 2016 to become the athletic director at Central High School, but there was one person who stood above the rest.

Bringhurst still recalls the presence of Ty Scroggins, the man who had coached the Yellow Jackets football program to five state championships.

“He owned a room, whether it was his room or not,” Bringhurst said. “It was just something about him. As an athletic director, you wanted that coach who was just going to stand out. Whether it was a coaching clinic or the state championships or even at the Sweet 16, there was just this respect for him anywhere he went.

“People were naturally drawn to him.”

Louisville’s high school sports community was in mourning Thursday morning after news came Wednesday evening Scroggins had died after a long battle with COVID-19. He was 49.

In an interview last month, Scroggins’ longtime girlfriend Sheri Duff said the coach tested positive for COVID-19 on Jan. 14 and was hospitalized after tests revealed a low oxygen level. Duff said Scroggins was put on a ventilator in late January in Louisville before being moved to the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington on Jan. 26.

Scroggins had spent the past four seasons as an assistant football coach at DeSales, which confirmed his death in a social-media post Wednesday night.

“Ty was a great coach as well as a great man, and he will be sorely missed in the DeSales community, along with the Louisville football community,” DeSales athletic director Don Bowers said. “My heart goes to his family in this time of sorrow.”

Along with Duff, Scroggins is survived by his three children — Jayden, a senior at DeSales; Jordan, a senior at Pleasure Ridge Park; and Mikayla, a sophomore at Male.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Scroggins posted a 101-43 record in 10 seasons (2007-16) as the head coach at Central, reaching seven Class 3A championship games and winning five titles (2007, 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012). He was the first African-American head coach to win a state football championship in Kentucky.

Scroggins was a 1990 graduate of Fairdale, where he played football and was the sixth man on the school’s 1990 state championship basketball team. After playing linebacker at the University of Louisville, Scroggins got his start in coaching at Doss. He was an assistant for four seasons before being named head coach in 2002, compiling a 22-30 record over five seasons.

He took a chance after the 2006 season, resigning at Doss to pursue the Central job.

“I couldn’t guarantee he’d get the job, but he bet on himself,” said Marlon Miller, who was the athletic director at Central then and now is the principal at King Elementary. “Once he went in the interview, it was clear to me he was the most prepared and ready for what we were looking for at Central. I was sold then. He was prepared and had a game plan.”

Miller said some questioned the hiring of Scroggins — especially after an 0-2 start in 2007 — but the final results spoke for themselves.

“He did it the right way,” Miller said. “When you do things the right way, look at the results. He handled winning with class, and he also handled losing with class. …

“He had so much more to give. I thought he could have helped a lot more people.”

His impact was felt across the state, from the West End of Louisville to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky.

Anthony “Ace” Wales was a star running back for the Yellow Jackets and was a member of the 2008, 2010 and 2011 state championship teams.

“He believed in me when nobody else did, especially being a 160-pound running back playing varsity football,” Wales said. “He always knew how to get to a kid and get the best out of him. I had troubles with neighborhood stuff and back at home when I was a high school kid.

“I was a cocky kid, but he was able to sit down with me and talk to me and relate to me. It wasn’t just an adult-kid thing. He was able to be my father, my coach and my friend. That’s hard to find with any coach.”

Wales rushed for 8,213 yards at Central, ranking third in state history, and went on to have a solid career at Western Kentucky. He recently finished his first season as the head coach at Iroquois and credited Scroggins as a strong mentor.

Before the season, Scroggins met with Wales and two other new African-American coaches — DaMarcus Smith at Western and Jalen Harrington at Shawnee — to provide guidance.

“He never even coached DaMarcus or Jalen, but he wanted to sit down and give him the knowledge he’s learned,” Wales said. “That shows a lot about him as a person. It wasn’t like, ‘I just want to talk to my guys.’ He wanted to help everybody any way he can. Some people really care about everybody, and he’s one of those guys.”

Of Central’s seven trips to the state finals under Scroggins, six came against Belfry and legendary coach Philip Haywood. Scroggins won the first four of those meetings, but Belfry won the last two in 2014 and 2016. That 2016 final was Scroggins’ final game as Central’s head coach.

Along the way, Scroggins and Haywood developed a close friendship.

“Some of our conversations would revolve around our kids and the similarities,” said Haywood, who has a state-record 457 victories in 46 seasons. “Even though there was a geographical difference in our kids, some of the similarities we both faced. You look at the world, and it’s a big place. But you find out it’s not as big as what you think when you sit around and get to know people. We had that in common and really appreciated that about each other.”

Marvin Dantzler took over as Central’s coach in 2017 and won a state title in 2018. With Scroggins staying at Central as a teacher even while he coached at DeSales, Dantzler and Scroggins became good friends.

“One of the rules in coaching is that you never want to be the guy to follow the guy,” Dantzler said. “But in this case, it turned out to be a blessing because I followed not only a great coach but a great person. We were co-workers in the building, and we were able to build a great relationship.”

Dantzler described Scroggins as “humble.”

“I would tease him and say, ‘Man, you’re kind of a big deal,’” Dantzler said with a laugh. “He would just be so humble … because he never presented himself that way. He was just Ty.”

Bringhurst, now the principal at the Nelson County Area Technology Center, expects Scroggins’ legacy to go beyond the football field.

He mentioned the players he coached, the students he taught, who now serve as coaches, teachers, police officers and in other professions around the community.

“His legacy is going to live on for generations through people he’s impacted on the West End,” Bringhurst said. “His former players are going to continue to teach the next generation with things they learned from Ty. So a little piece of Ty is going to continue to live on for a very long time because he impacted so many people in his career.”

Another part of his legacy is a motivational speech and prayer Scroggins started during his time as Central’s coach. Dantzler said players insisted they keep the tradition going after Scroggins left the program.

As the team gathers in the locker room before taking the field, the speech rises in volume for the final three lines:

“I’ll do my thing!”

“In Jesus’ name!”

“Amen!”

Ismael Arce, 51

Died January 28, 2021.

Tucson High Magnet School, Tucson, AZ

Social Studies, Soccer Coach

Local news:

TUSD’s governing board will on Tuesday honor former Tucson High boys soccer coach Ismael Arce, who died Jan. 28 from COVID-19. He was 51.

The board will remember Arce and the seven other TUSD employees who have died of the virus in the last year during their scheduled meeting, a district spokesperson said.

Arce coached the Badgers’ boys team for 19 seasons, winning the 2014 Division II state title while going undefeated.

Badgers athletic director Bobby DeBerry said Monday that Arce was well-liked by students and faculty alike.

“Being here at Tucson High for almost 20 years, he was a cornerstone here,” DeBerry said. “He was a good coach, the kind of coach that players go to. He was good with his kids, managing … their teenage years. And he was a good mentor.”

Tucson High’s 2014 team might have been Arce’s best. Led by striker Julian Gaona and his 32 goals, the Badgers went 24-0-3. Their 3-0 win over Glendale Copper Canyon in the Division II championship game secured the program’s first-ever state crown and the first state title by any Tucson High team since 1988.

Arce was named the Star’s 2014 boys soccer coach of the year, while Gaona earned player of the year honors. In a 2019 column, the Star’s Greg Hansen rated the Badgers as the 10th-best team of the decade, all sports and all levels.

Arce referred to the season as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. DeBerry said the undefeated state title run was “a huge deal” in the community.

Melissa Gutierrez, 45

Died February 2, 2021.

J. Frank Dobie High School, Houston, TX

Family Consumer Science

Local news:

Students at J. Frank Dobie High School are mourning the loss of their beloved teacher, 45-year-old Melissa Gutierrez. But her students say she was more than just a teacher.

“She loved everybody. Everybody that was around her felt love for her. A love beyond what a teacher should normally do,” said Noah Torres, a senior at J. Frank Dobie High School.

Mrs. Gutierrez taught family consumer science at Dobie High school for 11 years. She actually graduated from Dobie in 1993. And she loved being a part of the school.

“That was her passion to be an educator, that was her calling. Even outside of school she was still trying to teach,” said Joanna Gutierrez, Mrs. Gutierrez’s daughter.

But on Dec. 29, 2020, she tested positive for COVID-19. Her daughters said they were shocked, because she was always very careful.

“My mom was the last person that we thought would have ever got it, because she was so prepared and cautious,” Joanna Gutierrez said. “Not any time she (wouldn’t) have worn her mask.”

Her family said Mrs. Gutierrez had no underlying health conditions. They say she was intubated a week ago, but her lungs were just having a hard time. She died Tuesday.

“I was just in shock. There are no words to say. She was just a light in our life. Hard to imagine a person like that just gone,” said Kristen Barba, a Dobie High School senior.

Even though her classroom is now empty, Mrs. Gutierrez leaves hearts full of love and memories and one last lesson for all of her kids.

“She would have wanted for everyone to be prepared, wear your mask, take it seriously and take care of each other,” Joanna Gutierrez said.

Elizabeth Placencio, 42

Died February 15, 2021.

Mesa Middle School, Las Cruces, NM

Film and Broadcast, Librarian

Local news:

The Mesa Middle School community is grieving the loss of one of its founding teachers who died on Monday.

Elizabeth Placencio, a 42-year-old media teacher at Mesa Middle School, passed away after spending nearly a month in the hospital battling COVID-19.

Placencio was a teacher with LCPS for more than 20 years, teaching film and broadcast at Mesa Middle since the school opened in 2010.

“She was the example and model teacher for our young teachers and veteran teachers because of her giving heart, she never thought about herself,” said Mesa Middle School Principal Steve Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said that Placencio was among the few remaining staff members who had been with Mesa since its founding.

“The culture that … our staff have created Mesa is a family culture,” Rodriguez said. “It’s not a weakness that we have that family culture at our school. But it definitely makes it hard to lose any of our staff … but it’s also our strength, because it’s what’s going to get us through this and knowing that she would want us all to continue with what we’re doing at our school.”

Placencio also recently became the school’s librarian as well as the media teacher.

Charlene Ortega, who teaches computer science at Mesa Middle, was Placencio’s friend for the past decade. Ortega said she has fond memories of Placencio working on fundraisers for the school, collaborating with club activities and volunteering at school dances.

“She just had this energy about her,” Ortega said. “(She was a) helpful, giving person …. At the end of the day, we would just look at each other, we were tired, we were exhausted …. Everything that we did it was … for the school and for the kids.”

Placencio built the school’s media production course from the ground up, giving students at Mesa Middle the opportunity to compete in Student Television Network, a national competition for school broadcast.

“She worked tirelessly,” said Casey Blazer, a physical education teacher at Mesa and friend of Placencio. “She made things happen for (her students) that they might not ever get another opportunity to do. She just always went above and beyond.”

Ben Serrano, a former media teacher at Mesa Middle said that the school will always remember Placencio and what she’s done for the community. He said he’s received messages from former students saying how much they were impacted by Placencio.

He encouraged any students or community members to reach out so everyone can support each other through this loss.

“She was one of our pillars that kept our community together, and was always visible for anybody, and available for them,” Serrano said. “We’re just taking it day by day now. She’s always gonna be a big part of Mesa Middle School, and a big part of our lives in general.”

Serrano and Rodriguez both fondly remember pranks they pulled on Placencio throughout the years, saying she was always a good sport and joking around.

“Her laugh was contagious,” Rodriguez said. “She brought joy to our school.”

The two also started a Go Fund Me to raise money for the Placencio family. Search for “Eliabeth Placencio” at gofundme.com to learn more.

Placencio is survived by her husband and daughter.

“We just want everybody to know what kind of person that she was, and how much she meant to everybody,” Blazer said. “She was a good friend, she was a good mom, a great wife, a daughter. She just was a magnificent person all around.”

Placencio is the fifth educator in the district who has passed due to COVID-19.

Stephen Broxton, 42

Died February 18, 2021.

Erwin Middle School, Center Point, AL

Exceptional Education, Basketball Coach

Local news:

Students, teachers, and staff at Erwin Middle School are mourning the loss of a beloved teacher, who died battling COVID-19.

School Principal, Dr. Angela Bush said everyone at the school, and many in the community, are devastated to hear of 42-year-old Stephen Broxton’s passing. He died Thursday after battling COVID-19 for several weeks.

Dr. Bush remembers Mr. Broxton as a devoted and dedicated teacher with a heart of gold, often putting the needs of others above his own.

Being one of very few Black, male teachers, many looked to him as a role model.

Mr. Broxton taught Exceptional Education, and was also the Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach at Center Point High School.

Dr. Bush said Mr. Broxton started feeling sick back in January complaining of a cough. But she said he hesitated to go to the doctor because he didn’t want his students to fall behind. Dr. Bush says Mr. Broxton tested positive for COVID-19 on January 14th, and unfortunately never recovered.

“He was a role model for the students, and he could relate to the students. This was his heart and passion: working with students…special relationship with the males. So, it’s been a bit hard on the teachers here, the students and some of our parents as well because he poured so much into us and our school,” Dr. Bush said.

Grief counselors have been at Erwin Middle School since Thursday offering support to students and staff.

Students have organized a celebration of life for Mr. Broxton. They’re having a balloon release scheduled for next Thursday.

Donna Blatch, 54

Died February 16, 2021.

Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami FL

Bus Driver

Local news:

Friends and family members are mourning the loss of a Miami-Dade County Public Schools bus driver who died after contracting COVID-19.

Outside a bus terminal Tuesday morning, friends of MDCPS bus driver Donna Blatch offered a prayer to her grieving children.

“You know we are out here today lord God, lord God this Covid is real,” friend Letty McGhee said in prayer. “We ask them to touch heal and deliver them lord God, lord God give them peace right now

Donnna’s daughter Kanika Bradshaw said through tears that she already misses the simple moments, like talking to her mom.

“She was a good friend, she was a good mother, she was outspoken,” said Bradshaw. “Her just calling me, just calling me.”

Donna’s colleagues are also frontline workers during this ongoing pandemic, and they explained that bus drivers continue to struggle with the fear of exposure.

“The kids are not keeping their mask on their faces, kids are not social distancing on the bus [and] we are in a closed confined space,” said Mairetha Milton. “They should treat us with some dignity. We are asking to be respected the way the teachers are being respected.

“We are frontline workers. We can’t stay home and drive a bus from a computer.”

Between students who refuse to wear their masks and a breakdown in communication on whether any students sent home to quarantine were also on their routes, bus drivers’ concerns are growing.

Bradshaw said her mom often expressed concern that she was not being notified when kids who had been on her bus route were sent home to quarantine.

She believes this is crucial information so bus drivers can make life-critical decisions like whether to quarantine themselves or get tested.

“I know she inquired about the protocols and why kids were missing over a certain period of time,” Bradshaw said, adding that with other family members working as bus drivers, she feels like her mom’s legacy will be fighting for them to be safe and respected, fighting for their dignity.

“I lost my best friend to this covid,” Milton said. “How many more Donna Blatch’s is it going to be before it happens to one of us? We’re scared; we have underlying conditions, we have families with underlying conditions that we may take this Covid home to our families, and they need to take into consideration when they talk about opening these schools, they need to take our lives in consideration. The teachers can work and do that from home, we can’t do that. So we are asking for our community, pastors, the governor, the mayor to help us. Make it safer for us and these kids on these Dade County school buses. We have not got any recognition for what we are doing as bus drivers and we are afraid of losing our lives.”

In a statement, the school district said Donna worked with them for nearly 18 years and that they did not locate any positive COVID-19 cases involving students on her bus route.

The district also said when aware of a positive test, they do work to notify drivers if the student was on their route, adding there is ample PPE (personal protective equipment) and that drivers just need to ask for more if they run out.

McGhee however believes more can be done to keep drivers safe and to show recognition for their essential work.

“Recognize and understand this is real, someone lost their life,” she said. “We want to be recognized that we are frontline workers too.”

Donna’s death comes as the United States just marked a grim milestone of 500,000 lives lost to COVID-19.

As a caregiver, one thing bus drivers said you can do to help them stay safe is stress the life-critical importance of students wearing their masks and practicing social distancing while on the school bus to children, reminding them we are all in this together.

According to information posted on the Federal Education Association (FEA) Safe Schools Report, at least four active school bus drivers have died from COVID-19 in the state of Florida since Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran’s July 6 reopening order.

To see their names and view the FEA’s COVID-19 related data, click here.

A statement was sent to Local 10 late Tuesday from Phyllis Leflore, president of the AFSCME Local 1184. It read:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Ms. Blatch, an incredibly dedicated bus driver and veteran Union member. We are keeping her family, friends, and colleagues in our prayers during this difficult time. Ms. Blatch is the third loss from COVID 19 we have had within our Union in just the two weeks.

AFSCME Local 1184 is seeking a higher level of communication between M-DCPS and our Transportation Department to ensure that we are notified of all COVID 19 cases as they are reported in the District so that we can take appropriate measures to protect our members, students, and communities they serve. It is essential that we have a clear path of communication within our District in order to save lives.”

Christopher Sarmiento, 33

Died February 19, 2021.

Vista Middle School, Las Cruces, NM

Obituary:

Christopher Jacob Sarmiento was born on July 17th, 1987 to Esteban Sarmiento and Maria Elena Sarmiento (Irrobali) in El Paso, TX. He was called to be with our Lord on Friday, February 19th, 2021 after losing his hard-fought battle to COVID-19.

He is survived by is wife Mary Sarmiento (Gamez), Daughters Marley, Mahaley, son Christopher Jr., mother, Siblings Joseph, Esteban (Anel), Marie, Johnathan (Vanessa), Richard (Norma), and Michael (Samantha), and nieces and nephews. He committed his life to the service of our Lord and along with wife and children attended Abundant Living Faith Center in El Paso, TX. Christopher graduated from Jefferson High School and went on to obtain his teaching degree from the University of Texas at El Paso.

Chris tutored ESL students at Bowie HS, completed his student teaching at Brown Middle School, worked at Anthony HS, and most recently dedicated his last two years to Vista Middle School in Las Cruces where he taught 6th &7th grade Social Studies and helped coach the 8th grade football team. Chris grew up without a father. Therefore, he made it his life mission to help mentor young boys that needed a father figure in their lives. He did not always make the best decisions growing up, so he wanted to help those boys make better decisions than he made. He coached football to help young athletes understand that, yes, the love of sports is important, but doing well academically is just as important. He wanted them to know that it is okay to make mistakes and wrong decisions; the important thing is that you continue to push forward and work hard for second chances.

His grandfather has a park named after him in Segundo Barrio, “Tula Irrobali Park”. It was named after Tula because of the work he did to help at risk youth get away from gangs by playing sports. Chris wanted to follow his example and honor his grandfather’s legacy through his own work with youth and sports. From his colleague: “Chris was truly one in a million and one of God’s special angels. He always took the time to make everyone that he encountered feel special. He was funny and joked with his students all of the time. I cannot tell you how many students, many who were not even in his class, would stop by during passing periods to see him. I used to tease him and call him Prom King because he always had a group surrounding him. I will truly miss his presence. He brought peace and calm to meetings, which we needed! It was wonderful to work with him. He told me about how your oldest played basketball and was so smart. He talked about your small daughter being full of life and so carefree and fun. He talked about how tired he was when your son was born and how much he loved his children.” He may have looked rough and tough on the outside, but on the inside, he had one of the biggest hearts ever known. He was selfless and always willing and ready to help. Devoted father, loving husband, caring son and brother, loyal friend, dedicated teacher and coach.

Cara Bluth, 45

Died February 20, 2021.

George Hess Educational Complex, Landing, NJ

Vice Principal

Obituary:

luth, Cara Marie Josephine Surace, – 45, of Ventnor, NJ, left us on Feb. 20, 2021 after a short battle with COVID-19.

Cara made every room brighter just by entering it. From her soul, she exuded joy, laughter, and love. She loved celebrating with her family and friends, caring for all animals, gardening, and exploring our connections to each other through reiki, meditation, and more. Cara was a much-loved member of the Hess School community, part of the Hamilton Twp. School District, where she served as a vice-principal. She loved her job working with students and staff and dedicated countless hours to serving her school community. Cara previously taught first grade at Chelsea Heights Elementary School in Atlantic City and she had many fond memories of the students and staff there.

Cara was a graduate of George Washington University and after graduation, she spent ten years in the hotel industry in the DC area. Upon her return to Atlantic County, she entered the field of education and earned her MA in Educational Administration from Stockton University.

Cara is survived by her husband, Scott, and her two beloved pets, Leroy, an English bulldog, and Eli, a mischievous cat. She was the beloved daughter of John and Joetta, beloved daughter-in-law of Doris and Mark, and the sister of Erica Rose Schaffer (Kevin) and J.C. Surace (Jessica). Under the mentorship of her Aunt Ginger Palmero, Cara was the fun, loving, and devoted aunt to Erica’s children Frankie, Leo, and Luci and J.C.’s children, J.C. and Lexi. She is also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins as well as her lifelong friends, DC posse, Chelsea Family and Hess Family. Cara’s numerous friends and family members are devastated by her loss but are comforted by the many happy memories of Cara. You could not know her without recognizing the light and love she projected.

A celebration of her life will be held on June 20, the summer solstice, one of her favorite holidays and a fitting reflection of the joy and sunshine she brought into all of our lives. Cara was an abundance of joy and everyone who knew and loved her counts themselves lucky to have experienced her magic.

In keeping with her love for animals, Cara’s family encourages donations to the Humane Society of Atlantic County, the National Zoo in Washington, DC, where she volunteered and had a particular love for the panda bears, or any animal rescue organization you support. At a later date, a scholarship will be set up in Cara’s name, more information to follow. Condolences at www.radzieta.com

Jim Benham, 74

Died January 30, 2021.

Skiatook Public Schools, Skiatook, OK

Bus Driver

Obituary:

James Robert “Jim” Benham, age 74, of Skiatook went to be with his Lord and Savior Saturday, January 30, 2021 in Miami, Oklahoma.

Jim was born August 28, 1946 in Enterprise, Oklahoma to Glenn D. and Ina Dell (McCoy) Benham. Jim grew up and received his education in Stigler where he graduated in 1964. Jim went to Northeastern State College where he graduated with his Bachelor Degree in Education. Jim married Gayla Sue Patterson on July 21, 1966 in Poteau, Oklahoma. Jim began his teaching career in Plainville, Kansas in 1968 and taught there for 10 years before moving to Skiatook in 1978. He was employed with Skiatook Public Schools until his retirement in May of 2001. Jim was currently a school bus driver for the district. Jim was a member of the Riveted Baptist Church. He loved to cruise town on his motorcycle and could be seen making pit stops at Wal-Mart, Allred’s, Ace, and Kum and Go on the regular.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Glenn and Ina Dell Benham and in-laws Roland and Margaret Patterson.

Jim is survived by- Wife- Gayla, Daughters and son-in-laws Staci and Brett Henson, Jamie and Wes Reed and Mandi Jo and Rob Johns, Grandchildren Ty and Lexie Henson, Emma Henson, Hayden Reed and Madi Powell, Josie Dell Reed, Owen Johns and Nico Johns, Brothers Joe and wife Carolyn Benham, Tom and Donna Benham and Eddie Benham, Sister Janice Rae and husband Joe Reinke, Sister-in-laws Jo Ellen and husband Ron Dunn, Vicki Perryman, Brother-in-law Rick and Novita Patterson and an abundance of precious cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

The family of Jim Benham entrusted his care and services to Sien-Shelton Funeral Home.

Mark Swartz, 59

Died January 30, 2021.

Lompoc Unified School District, Lompoc, CA

Carpenter

Obituary:

Mark D. Swartz, of Lompoc, California passed away on Saturday January 30, 2021, at the age of 59 due to Covid-19 complications. He took his last breath at 2:10 p.m. that afternoon which unbeknownst to his family was his LUSD radio number and seemed to be his tribute to his LUSD Family.

Mark was an Alumni of Lompoc High, Class of ‘79. He worked for the Lompoc Unified School District for 31 years as a Carpenter. He thoroughly enjoyed his work and was proud of his part in replacing the bleachers at Huyck Stadium. One of the highlights for Mark was BBQ-ing for his work family every month.

Before beginning his career with LUSD he was a hotshot with VAFB and took pride in the fact that he worked at Slick 6 hauling Missile components. Mark was essential in building the Gaviota Chevron Oil Refinery, especially the wall along the highway.

In his early years he enjoyed trap shooting, actually taking a few trophies. He was a member of the Moose Lodge, traveling pool league, the LUSD bowling league where he was known for his 7/10 split pick up. He loved taking weeklong horseback riding trips into the mountains and living out his dream of being a cowboy and he loved John Wayne anything.

Mark was an AVID Dallas Cowboy fan but would cheer for his wife’s favorite, The Chief’s, whenever Dallas was not playing. As he got older he enjoyed deep sea fishing in Alaska with his Dad, Jim and his brother, Michael.

Mark developed a love for camping and would go every chance he got with his loving wife. Mark was a wonderful grandpa and he made great memories with and for his younger grand kids, Cienna and Adrian when they went camping and swimming together at Rancho Oso. His older grandkids remember well their trips to Lake Nacimiento and boating on the lake.

Mark could never do enough for his wife, his four daughters and four grandchildren. He loved showing his girls up with his roller-skating skills. When his daughters were cheerleading, he would help them practice their cheers. As a dedicated father he never missed a game for the girls or the grandchildren.

Mark was in charge of all the family special occasion BBQs and enjoyed every minute of it. He also lovingly put up his Mom’s Christmas tree every year without fail and happily completed all the honey do lists from his wife, whom he loved more than anything.

Mark was many things to many people, but everything to us. He was a great husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. And he never met a stranger.

Mark is survived by his wife, Vicky, of 24 years; daughters: Tamera Hernandez (Anthony), Lynn Eden, Sonja Janos, Tina Linderholm; grandchildren: Anthony Janos, Jarrod Chavoya, Cienna Hernandez, Adrian Hernandez; mother, Sonja Swartz; brother, Michael Swartz; brothers-in-law: Tim Vaughn and Larry Vaughn (Mike); nieces: Christy Sorenson (Jeffrey) and Barbara Maxine Vaughn. He was preceded in death by his father, James Swartz, and a sister-in-law, Dawn Swartz.

There will a viewing at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary, 123 North A Street in Lompoc, on Friday February 5th from 3 to 7 p.m. Face masks and distancing will be required.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated outside at La Purisima Catholic Church main school parking lot located at South I and West Olive on Saturday, February 6th at 11 a.m. Please bring your own chairs for seating and a sun hat. Masks and distancing are still required. Interment will be at a later date.

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, February 13th at 1 p.m. The location yet to be determined.

Vikki Cha

Died January 25, 2021.

Burrel Elementary School, Fresno, CA

After School Educator

Local news:

Vikki Cha brought happiness to so many students and staff at Burrel Elementary School.

“I remember the project when she made me the princess mask,” said kindergartener Sofia Iniquez.

Less than a month ago, the after-school educator lost her battle with COVID-19.

She worked at the school for less than a year, but her presence will never be forgotten.

A mural of the beloved teacher now watches over the students she cared for so deeply.

“The Burrel Community really, really embraced her and she just really stepped up with our students in expanded learning,” said Emma Chavez, project specialist with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools.

Cha started working with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools right before the pandemic hit.

Staff said she moved to the Central Valley from Sacramento to start a life with her fiancé.

Because of the coronavirus, much of her work was done virtually.

Those who worked closely with her say she always kept students on their toes.

“She would surprise the students,” said site lead Daisy Martinez. “The kids would come here with excitement looking forward to what she was going to do with them.”

Burrel Union superintendent Elizabeth Runyon said Cha was one in a million.

“We will miss her,” she said. “She was a hard-to-find rare gem and she was very special.”

As a final goodbye, staff and students she taught released white balloons into the air with a unified message, “Those we love never go far, but live forever in our hearts.”

Cha was laid to rest in Fresno Wednesday.

John Huffman, 53

Died February 14, 2021.

Cross Creek High School, Augusta, GA

History

Obituary:

Mr. John Croft Huffman, aged 53, passed away from his Earthly home on February 14, 2021. Born in Augusta on December 29, 1967, John was a graduate of Aquinas High School, received a BA from Augusta College and an MA from the University of Idaho and was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity.

John was a beloved history teacher at Cross Creek High School and served as a mentor to many. He commissioned each of his students to “do great deeds both big and small for your fellow man”. In addition to his teaching career, John had a love of firearms and worked as both a gun salesman and appraiser. His favorite hobby was collecting and refurbishing guns. John was a man of great faith and attended the Baptist Church and The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. John was a devoted family man and especially loved and cared for his two children and two stepsons. He was loved by his entire family and will be deeply missed. John was predeceased by his parents, Rosalinde Mae Horne Huffman and Richard William Huffman of Augusta.

He is survived by his two children, William John Huffman and Lily Elizabeth Huffman, two step-sons, Charles Milton Banks III and Richard West Banks, and a brother, Richard (Rick) William Huffman Jr all of Augusta. He is also survived by his former wife, Elizabeth West Huffman, Martha McDaniel West, John Richard West, Jr all of Augusta, and Ann Margaret West Dancy (Frank) of Atlanta, and an aunt and uncle, Rebecca Card Domenech and Phillip Domenech of Athens as well as his best friend Nick Sexton of Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the John de la Howe Agricultural School in McCormick, South Carolina. In standing with social distancing, a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Helenmaire White, 62

Died February 6, 2021.

Ballou STAY Opportunity Academy, Washington, DC

Cosmetology

Local news:

Helenmaire’ White spent most of her working life styling hair at The Ultimate Touch Hair Salon, a business she opened with her husband on Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue in Southeast D.C. in the late 1980s.

Her five children grew up at the salon, spending hours after school and weekends watching their mother hold easy conversation with clients as she toiled over their hair, said Tony White II, her oldest son.

“She loved the cultivation,” Tony White II said. “It was always about helping, it was always about service.”

White died Feb. 6 from complications of COVID-19. She was 62. She and her husband, Tony White, were married for 40 years.

In 2007, White came across another work opportunity: teaching cosmetology at Ballou STAY Opportunity Academy. Her children were hesitant about having their mother embark on a second career. White was nearing retirement, Tony White II said, and he wanted her to spend those years with him and the rest of the family, a close-knit tribe.

But when White visited the cosmetology program at Ballou STAY and met the young women enrolled in it, she “fell in love,” her son recalled. Suddenly, a woman who hardly used computers started developing curricula and giving tests.

“I saw my mom do one thing for my whole life. I never imagined my mom being a teacher,” he said. “She really poured her heart into everything that she did.”

When the family closed the salon in 2014, White continued teaching.

Ballou STAY is an alternative high school, educating students at risk of not reaching graduation. Students there are at least 16 years old and have fallen six or more credits behind grade level. The school also offers vocational programs to adults seeking barbering and cosmetology licenses.

Lannette Taylor had already spent years styling hair without a license when she enrolled in Ballou STAY’s cosmetology program a decade ago. Taylor viewed White as a second mother, someone who motivated her to attend class when she would have preferred spending the day earning money at work. She said White was a patient educator who cared deeply for her students.

“Mrs. White believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself,” Taylor said during a vigil outside the school Wednesday. “There were many days when I didn’t want to come, that I didn’t want to be in school… what she put inside of me, it just made me want to.”

Rhonda Davis was inspired to enroll in White’s class after her daughter received her cosmetology license through the year-long program. The 49-year-old had started pursuing a career as a cosmetologist many years ago in high school but fell off that path after getting married and having children.

Davis started the cosmetology program in Aug. 2019 and was supposed to complete the program last summer. But the coronavirus pandemic delayed the program, she said, and she returned to Ballou STAY in October to finish.

White called students if they missed a couple days of class, Davis said, nudging them to show up. The teacher organized a Christmas gift exchange.

“It was a family,” Davis said. “And that’s how she treated everybody.”

White’s daughter, Faith White, said teaching came naturally to her mother because of her patience. She took pride in her students, encouraging them to compete in local hair styling competitions.

“She had such confidence in them that they could do anything,” said White, who briefly took her mother’s class.

The Washington Teachers’ Union filed a complaint about Ballou STAY after White’s death, alleging safety protocols were violated. D.C. Public Schools denies those allegations. White’s family does not want to speak about the dispute, said Tony White II. Instead, they want to focus on remembering her as she was.

“The legacy of this woman is not one of strife,” he said. “Dealing with school, she felt she had a mission. And if those girls were going to be at school, she was going to be at school because she had to get them through.”

She was a devout Christian who had a gentle touch, her family said. But she would never side with someone if she felt they were wrong.

Each Christmas before the pandemic, she invited her entire extended family over for a breakfast potluck and woke up at 3 a.m. to start cooking herself. Once everyone arrived, she stood back, watching the merriment, and would quietly utter, “My family.”

She kept in constant touch with her children and grandchildren, hopping on FaceTime with them throughout the day. After White died, her family looked through the photos on her phone. They discovered all the “sneaky little screenshots” she took of the video calls, Tony White II said.

“She loved so much,” her son said. “She loved hard.”

Mark Suttles, 46

Died February 10, 2021.

Riverdale Middle School, Riverdale, GA

Special Education, Track Coach

Local news:

The number of reported deaths from COVID-19 is falling in Georgia, but that’s no comfort to the wife of a teacher and coach who died from the coronavirus this week.

Channel 2′s Tom Jones talked with LaShane Suttles in Clayton County. Her husband, Mark Suttles, died of the virus at just 46 years old. He was a well-known special education teacher at Riverdale Middle School and coached track at Riverdale High School.

LaShane Suttles said she is angry and searching for answers about how he got sick. Suttles was teaching middle school from home, but went to the high school to coach.

She said she doesn’t know if that’s where he contracted the virus, but strongly believes sports shouldn’t be a priority during a pandemic.

“You’re putting educators in danger,” Suttles said. “You’re putting the people that are teaching the future in danger. This virus will take your life. It will change your whole family just like this in an instant.”

Suttles said her husband loved teaching and coaching and just loved life.

“And now he’s just gone,” Suttles said. “You just sit there and you’re just pulling out pictures and things looking at your life. Just gone.”

Suttles said the couple grew up in a small town, dated briefly and then she moved away. They reconnected 20 years later and got married at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.

Now, their plans of growing old together are no longer.

“A wonderful man of 46 years just disappears, just like that,” Suttles said.

The school district would not comment on Suttles’ cause of death and wouldn’t respond when Jones asked about coaches having to teach in-person during a pandemic.

The Clayton County school superintendent released a statement late Thursday, saying:

“Clayton County Public Schools is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our valued employees. We continue to extend our prayers and thoughts to the family during this difficult time. We’re all dealing with the challenges of this pandemic in the many ways the virus can be contracted.

“The school district wishes not to speculate as to who and how the employee may have contracted the virus given the possibility of contraction from many sources.

“Again, the family is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time of loss. We encourage everyone to do their part to social distance, wear masks and participate in groups and gatherings responsibly. We must work together to combat this pandemic.”

James Brown Sr., 68

Died February 2, 2021.

McAlester High School, McAlester, OK

History

Obituary:

James M. Brown, Sr. passed away on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 in Sherman, Texas.

James was born on July 30, 1952 in Holdenville to Clarence Brown, Jr. and Carrie Mae (Knox) Brown. To this union, he was the only child.

During his grade school years, he attended school in San Francisco, California, the Oklahoma Military Academy (OMA), and the Holdenville Public School system. He graduated from Holdenville High School in 1971. He later went on to further his education at East Central University (ECU) in Ada where his major was Psychology and minor in Political Science. He graduated from ECU in 1974.

In that same year of 1974, he married Clarice Williams and they made McAlester their home. To this union, two children were born: James, Jr. and Tiffany.

James soon after went to work for the McAlester Public School system where he taught Psychology for more than 40 years, retiring in 2016. He returned to work for the McAlester Public School system in 2019 where he taught world history.

During his first tenure with the McAlester Public School System, he served in other official capacities such as City Councilman for the City of McAlester, first from 1982 to 1992, again from 1994 to 2003, then currently from 2018 to present. He proudly served Ward 4 and as Vice Mayor. He also served on the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board, appointed by Governor Brad Henry, and served for eight years. Six of those years as a board member and two of those years as chairman.

James, affectionately known as “JB” by his family, friends and students, was loved by many. He took the time to get to know those in his life; and paid a great deal of attention to concerns, issues, suggestions, and ideas, whether it be from a family member, friend, student, one of his Ward 4 constituents, or any citizen of McAlester. He encouraged his students to get involved in city, state, and US government, and was known to invite students to attend City Council meetings so that they could become familiar with the process and to know what all was going on within the city. JB was also known to bring prominent figures to speak to students in the classroom; something they all seemed to have enjoyed. One of his most proud and talked about guests was also a very special friend to him, the late Rev. Wade Watts. JB believed in empowering his students with as much knowledge, information, and wisdom as possible.

The Afro Student Union (ASU) was very dear to James. It was designed not for some, but for all students who wanted to join. ASU exemplified what JB’s main goal was in life; and that was to bring all people together regardless of who they were, what they had, or their walk of life; to include them and made sure that they knew the purpose for their life mattered.

During his already busy life, James found the time to become a great asset to other state entities such as the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (DOC) and Carl Albert Community Mental Health Center by rendering his time, service, consultation, and dedication to their daily operation. James was dedicated in many other aspects, both known and unknown through his life. He lived a life of service and was highly respected by all that knew him.

James leaves to carry on his legacy his daughters: Jamie Kennedy (Kevin) of Houston, Texas, Tiffany Brown-Chance (Alan) of Fort Worth, Texas; son: James M. Brown, Jr. of McAlester; grandsons: Darrion, Kamren, Jackson; granddaughters: Paige, Makayla, and Kaitlyn; 4 great-granddaughters; his great aunt: Jean Roberts of McAlester; and a host of cousins and friends who all meant a lot to him.

James was preceded in death by his parents: Clarence Brown, Jr. and Carrie (Knox) Brown; his paternal grandparents: Clarence Brown, Sr. and Izoller Pope; his maternal grandparents: George and Rebecca Knox; former mother-in-law: Bertha Williams; and special friends: Rev. Wade Watts and Senator Gene Stipe.

Karen Johnson, 57

Died February 11, 2021.

Albert Leonard Middle School, New Rochelle, NY

Special Education, Dance Coach

Local news:

A veteran New Rochelle teacher will be laid to rest Friday after losing her battle with COVID-19 last week.

Even as her family grieves her loss, they are proud of the life she lived and the difference she made.

As CBS2’s Tony Aiello reported, the Johnson home in New Rochelle is filled with the joy of new life.

“Every single day, she wanted to see my son,” Robert Johnson Jr. told Aiello.

And the sorrow of terrible loss.

“She said to me, ‘I love you Robert Johnson.’ And that’s the last words she ever said to me,” he said.

The deep loss felt by the family of Karen Johnson is shared by many in New Rochelle. She was a beloved special education teacher at Albert Leonard Middle School.

“She was there for her kids. She wasn’t going to let them down,” said Johnson Jr.

She also coached the district’s acclaimed Prestige Step Team.

“We traveled everywhere with a lot of kids that would never have the opportunity to travel,” Robert Johnson Sr. said.

Johnson died Feb. 11 from COVID-19. She was 57 years old.

Last August, Johnson gave the district a doctor’s note citing obesity as a risk factor. It asked that she be allowed to work from home or given protection to minimize exposure at work.

The district denied her work-from-home request, but agreed to provide PPE and other measures. Johnson chose not to appeal the decision.

“It was denied. She marched back into the school and she did her job,” said Johnson Sr.

The family described Johnson as a “good soldier,” and indeed she served the country for four years in the Army.

Albert Leonard had reopened for just one day after a 10-day break when Johnson took ill. There’s no knowing how or where she contracted coronavirus.

“She knew COVID could be a death sentence, so that made her extremely cautious with everything that we did,” Johnson Jr. said.

It’s another shattering loss for the Johnson family. Their oldest child, Shaderi, died in 2017. Now Karen, just two months after welcoming Jace, her second grandchild.

“It breaks you and it breaks your family into pieces. We’ve had to accept that we’re not going to be the same people that we were when she was here. That piece is missing,” said Johnson Jr.

Pete Perez

Died February 8, 2021.

Valencia High School, Valencia, CA

Music

Obituary:

Peter Rivera Perez was the first born of three children to parents Jose and Georgina Perez. Peter and his siblings grew up in a wonderful and close-knit family in Oxnard, California. His grandparents, aunts and uncles all lived within a three-block radius, giving way to days filled celebrating family, music, dancing, food, faith, and love of life. Peter always stood out with his red hair, just like his great-grandfather.

His childhood, filled with family and pride of his Mexican culture, led he and his siblings to dance Mexican Ballet Folklorico at various events throughout the region. Not a Cinco de Mayo went by that they were not performing from dawn to dusk.

Peter was the first of the family to pick up an instrument which started their love of music where he, his brother Rafael, and sister Mary Ellen would continue throughout the years to play in marching bands, concert bands, orchestras, jazz bands, festivals, community bands, and at church. He started on the clarinet and then moved to the oboe. His musical talent soared and no matter what instrument he picked up, he had a talent for it.

Peter was an accomplished woodwind player, specializing in oboe, English horn, saxophone, clarinet, and flute. He also played drums in his high school marching band. An alumni of California State University, Long Beach, Peter studied under the directorship of John Prince, Akira Endo and Larry Curtis, just to name a few and performed in the “Big Brown Music Machine” marching band as well as various school groups throughout the United States, Australia, and Scotland. A partial list of Peter’s live performances includes playing with the Joffrey Ballet Company, the Santa Monica Symphony, and the Pageant of the Masters Orchestra. In addition, Peter performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, at the KOOL Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl (now called the Playboy Jazz Festival), the Montreux Jazz Festival, and America’s Youth in Concert-European Tour where he played at Carnegie Hall and all over Europe. He performed in the orchestra for several musical theater performances in Los Angeles including Phantom of the Opera, Evita, and the Nutcracker ballet. He also recorded several motion picture soundtracks and television recordings including Sister Act, The Last of the Mohicans, Jingle All the Way, Animaniacs, and Batman the Animated Series, just to name a few. Through it all, he remained humble and often wouldn’t tell others of his musical accomplishments, enjoying instead to spend time with friends eating great food, fishing, listening to music, or laughing together.

Peter dedicated the majority of his teaching career to the Valencia High School Tiger Regiment in Placentia, California. For the past 30 years, Peter served as the assistant band director as well as the director of the jazz bands and advisor to the combos, earning numerous top awards and accolades with his various groups. In addition to VHS, Peter worked with the bands at Fountain Valley High School, Savanna High School, Kennedy High School, and Kraemer Middle School. For the last 12 years, Peter was a site coordinator with Music in the Parks, a national band/orchestra/choir music festival organization. Peter was a member of the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association (SCSBOA), International Association of Jazz Educators and has served as clinician, auditioner, and band manager for several of the SCSBOA’s honor groups throughout his career.

For over 30 years, he influenced the lives of thousands of students as their music teacher. Peter had great success in teaching his students the love of music, jazz and jazz history, and guided his students to earn numerous top awards and accolades over the past 30 years. It was important to Peter to expose his students to career paths in music by facilitating concerts with college and military bands as well as the annual jazz guest artist program, playing with many over the years including Poncho Sanchez, Bob Florence, Barbara Morrison, Francisco Torres, Wayne Bergeron, Andy Martin, George Graham, Eric Marienthal, Bill Liston, Sal Lozano, and Alex Hahn to name a few. A consistent participant in the annual International Reno Jazz Festival, the Essentially Ellington – Las Vegas Regional Festival, and many local Orange County festivals, the VHS Jazz ensembles and combos earned numerous high marks over the years. The band has also been asked to perform at various community and school district events. For him, the camaraderie between schools was always more important than winning, often making a point to attend other school’s concerts and competitions as well as his annual dedication to the District-wide Jazz Jam each winter.

However, most would say that he wasn’t *just* a music teacher, but rather mentor, sometimes-therapist, and friend. For many, he fostered an environment that was a safe place where students could be themselves and belong during those turbulent teen years. He served as mentor to many Eagle Scouts, attended many quinceneras, weddings, college concerts, and graduations of his former students.

In 1999, Peter married Jennifer Minor and started a life in Orange County where together they proudly raised two beautiful boys. Being a husband and a father were two of his greatest joys in life. Pete and Jen built a home in Placentia where they infused the foundations of faith, family, laughter, and the love of music, soccer, and fishing. Some of their best memories were playing board games and roasting s’mores in the backyard, taking trips to the Central Coast of California, fishing at Southern California beaches, visiting family, and attending concerts, playing music and soccer together.

Peter was preceded in death by his father Jose Perez.

Peter is survived by his wife, Jennifer, of 21 years and their two boys, Christian-18 and Gabriel-15. He is also survived by his mother, Georgina, brother Rafael (Pamela), sisters Mary Ellen (David), Soledad, and Ana; in-laws Paul and Vivienne, sister-in-law Alison, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Due to the COVID restriction, attendance to the visitation, rosary, funeral mass, and internment will be limited and by invitation only in order to maintain the safety of those in attendance. Masks and social distancing will be required. However, all services for Peter will be live-streamed and a link will be shared via the Caring Bridge website for anyone wishing to participate virtually.

Visitation will take place on Friday, February 26, 2021 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. followed by a Rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Both will be held at Garcia Mortuary in Oxnard, California. Visitation will be open to all who wish to attend with a maximum of 40 people rotating in the room at a time. The funeral mass will be at Santa Clara Catholic Church in Oxnard, California on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at 11:30 a.m., followed by the internment at Santa Clara Cemetery. There will be no reception at this time due to COVID restrictions. The family will host a celebration of life in Orange County at a future date when it is safer to gather for all those who wish to come and honor Peter’s life.

The family is so grateful for the generous outpouring of support throughout this difficult time. If you would like to send flowers or plants for the services, please send to Garcia Mortuary at 629 S. “A” Street, Oxnard, CA 93030. Or, in lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/), Epilepsy Foundation (http://epilepsy.com), or the Valencia High School Tiger Regiment Band and Colorguard (http://www.tigerregiment.org/fundraising/).

James Mercadante, 55

Died January 10, 2021.

Saugus High School, Santa Clarita, CA

Lead Supervisor

Local news:

Three members of the same family from the Santa Clarita area died from COVID-19 complications after attending a gathering with relatives around Thanksgiving.

Two brothers, 55-year-old James Mercadante and 51-year-old George Mercadante, died hours apart from one another, and their uncle, also named George Mercadante, who was in his 80s, passed away two weeks later.

James and George’s sister, Sarah Mercadante, thinks the virus may have spread during the family gathering, which she did not attend, as the symptoms of all three men started around the same time. Her brothers and uncle were all hospitalized.

“I just kept thinking, ‘We’re strong and healthy, we’re strong and healthy,’” she said. “But no.”

Sarah says she didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to James, who died on Jan. 10, in person.

“He said, ‘God bless you, Sarah, and I love you.’ That was the last thing he said to me,” she said. “I would say, ‘You’re young and healthy. You’re gonna get through it.’ Now I feel awful. He was the one being the most careful and he was the first one to pass away in the family.”

Her other brother George died hours later. Then her uncle died about two weeks later, on Jan. 27.

“There’s no rhyme or reason behind it. It’s cruel. It’s evil,” Sarah said. “You can’t be in the hospital with your loved one when this is going on. It’s gut wrenching.”

James was a lead supervisor at Saugus High School and survived the 2019 mass shooting there. The school posted on Facebook saying that his kind personality and smile will be missed.

His sister says he was an active and strong bicyclist, hang glider and an Army veteran.

“Strong and healthy as an ox. It knocked him out so fast,” Sarah said.

Their brother George had a disability and James cared for him most of his life, she said.

“He was basically the mind and heart of a child stuck in a grown man’s body,” Sarah explained.

Their uncle George, also an Army veteran, was hospitalized for several weeks before Sarah said she made the difficult decision to take him off life support. She says she fought for him to be treated with non-approved drugs under the Right to Try Act, but it was too late.

“My uncle loved to travel and he was always a spur-of-the-moment, adventurous kind of guy even at 85. And strong as an ox as well,” Sarah said.

Her parents, who are in their 80s, also tested positive for the coronavirus, but they recovered.

“What’s gonna end up killing my dad is burying his two sons and his brother,” she said.

Sarah says her outlook on the virus has changed.

“When you watch three of your loved ones pass away on ventilators and life support right in front of you … Every day I’m dealing with a mix of emotions between grief and anger toward the virus,” she said.

A friend of the Mercadante family set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses.

Maureen McNally LaLama, 64

Died February 2, 2021.

Choffin Career and Technical Center, Youngstown, OH

Surgical Technology

Obituary:

Maureen Elizabeth “Mo” McNally LaLama, 64, passed away Tuesday evening, February 2, 2021, at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital from complications of Covid-19.

Maureen was born November 14, 1956, in Youngstown, the youngest of three children born to the late William and Elizabeth Gustas McNally and she was a lifelong area resident.

Mo was a 1973 graduate of Chaney High School, she then attended Youngstown State University and later graduated from Choffin Career and Technical Center School of Surgical Technology.

Maureen worked for over 25 years as a surgical technician at Northside Hospital and at Beeghly Surgical. Recently, Maureen was sharing her skills, teaching surgical technology at Choffin, which was a job she truly loved.

Maureen was a passionate sports fan, especially of football and hockey. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Penguins had no bigger fan. She enjoyed hosting parties and holiday dinners and sharing her holiday baking always gave her joy.

Everyone was always welcome at her home, where summers were always abuzz with picnics and swimming and where friends were treated like family.

She leaves to cherish her memory three children, Phillip LaLama of Boardman, Kathleen (Eric) Grunenwald of Boardman and William (Jennifer) LaLama of Cumming, Georgia; a grandson, Jackson LaLama, who was the light of her life; a brother, William “Mac” (Martha) McNally of Girard; many extended family members and many friends.

Mo will be truly and sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Besides her parents; a sister, Kathleen “Kat” Denny, preceded her in death.

Mo’s unexpected and untimely death is a tragic loss shared by all who knew her. She was a spirited individual that took friendship seriously and one could always count on Mo having their back.

Family and friends may call from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., on Monday, February 8, 2021, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, at the funeral home and will continue with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., at St. Brendan Church, 2800 Oakwood Avenue, Youngstown.

Please follow all current social distancing guidelines and health protocols when visiting the family and attending the services and the LaLama family suggests that all attending wear masks or face coverings. To those who cannot attend the visitation or services, or are uncomfortable doing so at this time, please keep Maureen and her family in your prayers.

In lieu of flowers and due to her untimely passing, Mo’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to her family for a college fund for her grandson, Jackson.

Gilbert Blumenthal, 42

Died December 24, 2020.

TulsaTech, Broken Arrow, OK

Automotive Skills

Obituary:

Gilbert Maximilian Blumenthal, loving father, son, and brother, passed away December 24, 2020 from Covid 19 and Pneumonia. He was 42 years old. Gil was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on September 5, 1978 to Mark and Brenda Blumenthal.

Gil was tenacious and dedicated to any effort. He and his father enjoyed repairing lawn mowers, motorcycles, and automobiles. Regardless of what failed, Gil and his father would repair it together. These skills proved invaluable when Gil opened his first lawn care business. Additionally, he used this knowledge to assist others with car maintenance problems during his teenage years and beyond.

In his youth, Gil joined the Boy Scouts of America, ultimately attaining the rank of Eagle, scouting’s highest honor, at age 17. Gil earned his Associate’s degree and later, his Bachelor’s degree. He held a Federal Aviation Administration Airframe and Power Plant Mechanics license, allowing him to legally repair any aircraft and aircraft engine, and sign off log books to return the aircraft to airworthiness condition.

He brought his passion for cars and engines to the next generation, teaching high school students automotive skills at Tulsa Tech. He earned his Master Certification from The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence. Gil’s ability, enthusiasm, and genuine concern as an educator was honored in 2018 when he was awarded “Teacher of the Year”, not only for the Broken Arrow campus where he taught, but for the entire Tulsa Tech District, including all seven campuses.

In 2009, Gil became a proud father when his incredible son Graesyn was born. They bonded over a shared love of sports, fishing, dirt bikes, business, and automotive mechanics. Gil shared his passion for working on cars with Graesyn, just as his father before him.

Gil was a member of the masonic fraternity like his father, and was planning on becoming a Shriner at the upcoming Ceremonial.

Gil was preceded in death by grandparents Gilbert Blumenthal, Arthur and Beverly Yellen, and Cecil and Emma Rose. Gil is survived by his son Graesyn Hoss and his son’s mother Nicole Hoss, parents Mark and Brenda Blumenthal, sister Kim (Dan) Balsinger, along with multiple cousins, aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gil’s memory can be made to the Akdar Shrine Hospital Transportation Fund either online at <https://akdarshrine.org/donation-information>; or by mail to: Hospital Transportation Fund, C/O Akdar Shrine Temple, 2808 South Sheridan Road, Tulsa, OK, 74129. Donations may also be made in Gil’s memory to Temple Israel at 2004 East 22nd Place, Tulsa, OK, 74114, or online at <https://templetulsa.com/donate>;.

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Jeffrey Kaplan, 61

Carole Lange, 73

Dwayne Berry, 65

Rodney Scott

Russell Milligan, 56

Patricia Waters, 58

Ruben Cajigas, 46

Bill Cosper, 62

Melissa Sheats, 49

Michael Wilson, 35

Alfredo Valles, 60

Jimmy Carino, 62

Jyl Way, 49

Larry Hon, 78

Ty Scroggins, 49

Ismael Arce, 51

Bonnie McLeod, 65

Lynn Himes Kraemer, 57

Melissa Gutierrez, 45

William Duckworth, 50

Elizabeth Placencio, 42

Stephen Broxton, 42

Donna Blatch, 54

Christopher Sarmiento, 33

Cara Bluth, 45

Jim Benham, 74

Mark Swartz, 59

Vikki Cha

John Huffman, 53

Janice Dawkins, 53

Helenmaire White, 62

Mark Suttles, 46

James Brown Sr., 68

Karen Johnson, 57

Pete Perez

James Mercadante, 55

Maureen McNally LaLama, 64

Gilbert Blumenthal, 42

Benny Lee Doe, 70