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Officialfuneralworld, 304 S Main St, Sumter, SC (2026)

04/20/2026

Celebrating the Life of Tianah “Princess Tianah”Robinson

Tianah Robinson’s celebration of life was a beautiful and heartfelt tribute that reflected her spirit, personality, and the joy she brought to those around her. Inspired by the beloved Disney film The Princess and the Frog, the service embraced a theme that symbolized dreams, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself. From the décor to the music, every detail was thoughtfully chosen to honor Tianah’s vibrant life, creating an atmosphere that was both uplifting and deeply meaningful for family and friends.

Her service was a true reflection of who she was—a young woman full of light, ambition, and love. The Princess and the Frog theme carried a powerful message, reminding everyone of Tianah’s determination and her ability to find beauty and purpose in every moment. Guests were surrounded by elements that celebrated her uniqueness, blending elegance with warmth, and turning what could have been a somber occasion into a celebration filled with remembrance, storytelling, and love.

Though Tianah Robinson is no longer physically present, her celebration of life made it clear that her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. The service was not just a farewell, but a testament to a life that, while brief, left a lasting impact. Through the memories shared and the symbolism of her themed tribute, Tianah’s story continues—one of hope, inspiration, and a spirit that will never be forgotten.

04/20/2026

A Louisiana father fatally shot eight children, including seven of his own, in an attack on his family Sunday morning that stretched across two houses in a Shreveport neighborhood left shaken by one of the nation’s deadliest mass shootings in recent years, police said.

Two women, including the gunman’s wife who was the mother of their children, were also shot and critically wounded, according to Shreveport Police Department spokesperson Chris Bordelon. Officials said the children — who were all killed in the same house — ranged in age from 3 to 11 years old.

The gunman, identified as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, died after a police pursuit that ended with officers firing on him, according to Bordelon. Authorities did not say what may have set off the violence but Bordelon said detectives were confident the shooting was “entirely a domestic incident.”

Remember and honor the children shot and killed in Shreveport, LA, with action.
Jayla Elkins, 3
Shayla Elkins, 5
Kayla Pugh, 6
Layla Pugh, 7
Markaydon Pugh, 10
Sariahh Snow, 11
Khedarrion Snow, 6
Braylon Snow, 5

04/20/2026

Vice-Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen was a devoted public servant, attorney, and community leader whose life reflected a deep commitment to advocacy, justice, and uplifting others. As the first Black woman elected as mayor of Coral Springs, Florida, she broke barriers while championing inclusivity, civic engagement, and transparent leadership. Her background as a lawyer and her passion for public service shaped her approach to governance, allowing her to connect meaningfully with residents and address issues impacting families, businesses, and future generations.

A life and legacy celebration held in her honor brought together community members, colleagues, family, and friends to reflect on the profound impact she made. The service highlighted her unwavering dedication to serving others, her strong faith, and her ability to inspire those around her. Speakers shared heartfelt memories of her leadership, her warmth, and her tireless efforts to create positive change. It was a moment of both mourning and gratitude, as many recognized how her work left a lasting imprint on the city and beyond.

Throughout her life, Nancy Metayer Bowen contributed significantly to her community by advocating for equity, supporting youth initiatives, and fostering unity across diverse groups. Some of her most notable moments included her historic election, her work in strengthening community relations, and her role in elevating the voices of underrepresented populations. She will be deeply missed not only for her accomplishments but for her compassion, integrity, and the genuine care she showed to everyone she encountered. Her legacy will continue to inspire future leaders and serve as a reminder of the power of service and purpose.

04/09/2026

Honoring the Life of Pearl Fryar

A self-taught topiary artist from Bishopville whose life story became a powerful example of creativity, discipline, and resilience. Originally from North Carolina, he moved to Bishopville in the 1980s and began transforming his yard into what would become one of the most breathtaking topiary gardens in the United States. What started as a personal challenge—to meet neighborhood expectations—evolved into a lifelong passion. Without formal training, he taught himself the art of shaping trees and shrubs, turning ordinary plants into extraordinary living sculptures that drew visitors from around the world.

Fryar’s garden became more than a personal project—it became a symbol of vision, hope, and community pride. His work was featured in the documentary A Man Named Pearl, which introduced his story to a global audience and highlighted his philosophy of positivity and perseverance. Over the years, his garden in Bishopville became a place of inspiration, where people could witness the beauty that can grow from patience and dedication. His legacy lives on not only in the carefully sculpted trees he left behind but also in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, wisdom, and encouragement to “keep on going.”

Pearl Fryar possessed a rare artistic gift—the ability to see potential where others saw the ordinary. Through his gardening journey, he shared that gift freely, crafting intricate, whimsical topiary designs that felt alive with movement and imagination. Each tree told a story, shaped by his hands and guided by his vision. With deep sadness, it is shared that he passed away on April 3, 2026, in Bishopville, South Carolina. His transition marks the loss of a remarkable artist and visionary, but his spirit endures in the living art he created and the inspiration he planted in hearts around the world.

04/08/2026

Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer tragically passed away on April 1, 2026, leaving behind a powerful legacy of service, compassion, leadership, and purpose. She made history as the first Black and Haitian American woman elected as a Commissioner in Coral Springs in 2020 and was re-elected in 2024. Later that year, on December 4, she was appointed Vice Mayor, serving with grace, vision, and a deep commitment to her community. Nancy was known for making people feel seen, heard, and valued, and she worked to ensure every voice had a place at the table.

Before her time on the City Commission, Nancy dedicated her career to environmental justice and public health across Florida. As an environmental scientist, she worked to improve water quality, sanitation, and disaster response efforts, including those related to major hurricanes. She also served in roles that supported sustainability and community resilience, including her work with the Broward County Soil and Water Conservation District. Throughout her leadership, she championed initiatives focused on environmental responsibility, small businesses, and creating opportunities for future generations.

Nancy’s impact extended beyond her titles and achievements. She served on numerous boards and committees and earned recognition for her work, including awards for clean water advocacy and leadership. She held degrees from Florida A&M University and Johns Hopkins University, reflecting her dedication to education and service. More than anything, Nancy will be remembered as a bright light and a force for good. Her legacy lives on through the values she embodied—leading with compassion, promoting inclusion, and always making space for others.

04/07/2026

Pearl Fryar was a self-taught topiary artist from Bishopville whose life story became a powerful example of creativity, discipline, and resilience. Originally from North Carolina, he moved to Bishopville in the 1980s and began transforming his yard into what would become one of the most breathtaking topiary gardens in the United States. What started as a personal challenge—to meet neighborhood expectations—evolved into a lifelong passion. Without formal training, he taught himself the art of shaping trees and shrubs, turning ordinary plants into extraordinary living sculptures that drew visitors from around the world.

Fryar’s garden became more than a personal project—it became a symbol of vision, hope, and community pride. His work was featured in the documentary A Man Named Pearl, which introduced his story to a global audience and highlighted his philosophy of positivity and perseverance. Over the years, his garden in Bishopville became a place of inspiration, where people could witness the beauty that can grow from patience and dedication. His legacy lives on not only in the carefully sculpted trees he left behind but also in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, wisdom, and encouragement to “keep on going.”

Pearl Fryar possessed a rare artistic gift—the ability to see potential where others saw the ordinary. Through his gardening journey, he shared that gift freely, crafting intricate, whimsical topiary designs that felt alive with movement and imagination. Each tree told a story, shaped by his hands and guided by his vision. With deep sadness, it is shared that he passed away on April 3, 2026, in Bishopville, South Carolina. His transition marks the loss of a remarkable artist and visionary, but his spirit endures in the living art he created and the inspiration he planted in hearts around the world.

04/07/2026

Wreath Laying Ceremony

A DAY WE Shall Not Forget. April 5, 2026, the TheKingCenter reminded the crowd of how far we’ve come and the sacrifices focusing on the assasinstion of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Bob Mackey’s photography coverage of commemorations honoring Martin Luther King Jr. captures more than ceremonial moments—it reflects a living legacy. His images often focus on quiet, human details: clasped hands during prayer, multigenerational crowds marching together, and faces marked by both solemn remembrance and determined hope.

Through this visual storytelling and the words from Dr. Bernice King, the significance of Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative remembrance becomes clear. It is not only a day of of significant loss, but a call to carrying the spirit of the movement into present and future efforts for continued social change.

📷 Bob Mackey Photography

04/02/2026

Official Celebration of Life Announcement

Order of Services Scheduled

FIRST PUBLIC VIEWING
FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2026 | 4:00PM - 8:00PM
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH GRESHAM
2394 GRESHAM RD SE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

SECOND PUBLIC VIEWING
SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2026 | 2:00PM - 6:00PM
ADRICK ALEXANDER CHAPEL
12223 BROAD ST, SPARTA, GA 31087

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2026 | 2:00PM
HANCOCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM
11311 HIGHWAY 15 N, SPARTA, GEORGIA 31087

FINAL RESTING PLACE
SPRINGFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH CEMETERY
3374 SPRINGFIELD RD. SPARTA, GA 31087

PROFESSIONAL FUNERAL SERVICE ENTRUSTED TO:
TRI-CITIES FUNERAL HOME
6861 MAIN ST, LITHONIA, GA 30058

04/01/2026

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, the Live with the Undertaker Podcast: Women’s Takeover Edition stands as a powerful tribute to the strength, resilience, and excellence of women in funeral service. Hosted by Kyra Thompson, this special edition brought together an inspiring panel of professionals—Katraisa Bostic, Carolyn Cranford Johnson, Felicia B. Woods, and Donnia Darby—each representing leadership and impact as licensed funeral directors and industry trailblazers.

Throughout the conversation, these women shared meaningful insights drawn from their personal journeys, highlighting the realities of working in a traditionally male-dominated field while redefining what leadership and success look like. From balancing compassion with professionalism to navigating challenges and breaking barriers, the discussion was both empowering and educational, offering wisdom for current and future generations in funeral service.

More than just a conversation, this episode was an unforgettable encounter rooted in purpose—centered on educating, elevating, and encouraging women to not just meet standards, but to create them. It celebrated the many roles women hold in today’s funeral industry, from embalmers to managers and practitioners, reminding us all of the lasting impact women continue to make while serving families and communities with excellence.

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