In memory of those who “died suddenly” in the United States, May 22-May 29, 2023
"Big Brother" star Joseph Ada; rapper Doc Todd; big band drummer Ralph Humphrey; former U. Chicago president Robert Zimmer; high school swimmer Justin Carr; a spike in baby deaths in PA; & more
UNITED STATES
Spike in baby injuries and deaths in Pa. hospitals alarms patient safety agency
May 25, 2023
A spike in injuries and deaths of newborns at Pennsylvania hospitals has alarmed a state agency, which also says it has been unable to get the information from hospitals it needs to analyze the incidents and try to prevent them. The Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority says it received reports of 169 “serious events” involving neonatal care in 2022, about twice as many as in 2018.
No cause of death reported.
Ralph Humphrey, Famous Drummer and Former Member of Don Ellis Big Band, Has Died
April 19, 2023
The Yamaha Drums team is saddened to hear that Ralph Humphrey has passed. Ralph’s earlier work with the Don Ellis Big Band and Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention gave him the knowledge and expertise to speak, teach and write on the subject of rhythm and its application in modern drumming, influencing and educating generations of drummers. Ralph maintained a very active career in the recording industry, playing for a variety of motion picture, TV and record projects including American Idol, The Emmys, Star Trek Enterprise, The Simpsons, Family Guy and American Dad, to name a few. Ralph has recorded and toured with artists such as Wayne Shorter, Al Jarreau, Natalie Cole, Barbra Streisand and Bette Midler.
No cause of death reported.
From an email from a reader:
Mark, yet another famous Los Angeles drummer died in the past few weeks, Ralph Humphrey, formerly of Manhattan Transfer, Frank Zappa, Don Ellis. He played on thousands of film and television scores. He was 79, died of stage 4 colon cancer a year after a clean colonoscopy. He was an avid fan of the vaccines from the outset.
Rapper Dies of 'Sudden Cardiac Death': Doc Todd Was 38
May 28, 2023
George Michael Todd, Jr., a U.S. Navy veteran who served in Afghanistan and made it his life's mission to help other veterans through music recorded under the names Mik and Doc Todd, has died. He was 38. Todd died in Atlanta on May 12. The cause of death was "sudden cardiac death," his wife Abigail told NPR. He earned the nickname "Doc" because he served as a medic. He was a Fleet Marine Force Hospital Corpsman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines Infantry Unit (America's Battalion, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina). Todd and his fellow Marines were deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in the summer of 2009 for Operation Khanjar, the largest aerial deployment of Marine Corps troops since the Vietnam War. When he came home, Todd had PTSD. He used GI Bill benefits to get a bachelor's degree in economics and public policy from Georgia State University. In 2017, he released the album Combat Medicine, which features the song "Not Alone." In his lyrics, he urged veterans to get help for their mental health. The song is about "taking charge of your life, taking charge of your transition" from combat zone to civilian life, Todd told NPR in 2017. Todd didn't seek help for his PTSD for several years. He turned to drinking heavily before realizing he could use his rap skills for good. He quit his job as a money manager and pursued a music career. He believed telling the truth without "coddling" veterans was the best way to convince them to get help. "We have to be responsible for empowering our own lives," he told NPR. "And it doesn't really help when the overwhelming narrative is victimization and brokenness."
No cause of death reported.
‘Big Brother' Star Joseph Ada Has Reportedly Died
May 28, 2023
Joseph Ada, a former Big Brother Nigeria (now Big Brother Naija) reality TV star, has died. Ada, a contestant in the first season of Big Brother Naija television show in 2006, passed away on Wednesday, May 24, in Delaware, after a prolonged illness, according to New Telegraph. According to the reports, the reality star had been diagnosed with Pancreatitis and died in the early hours of Wednesday morning after succumbing to this disease. Upon the completion of the show, Ada moved to the USA in order to pursue his career as a flight attendant for Virgin Atlantic. He was a contestant on the show in 2006 along with other contestants such as Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Gideon Okeke, Maureen Osuji, Katung, Francisca Owumi, Ify Ejikeme, and Helen, among others.
No age reported.
Former University [of Chicago] President Robert Zimmer Dies Aged 75
May 23, 2023
Former University president Robert Zimmer died today at age 75 following a battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Chair of the Board of Trustees David Rubenstein and University president Paul Alivisatos announced the news in an email to the University community Tuesday afternoon.
Zimmer, who retired in 2021, was no doubt “vaccinated”:
University Of Chicago, Loyola, Northwestern To Require COVID-19 Booster Shots For Students, Staff
December 20, 2021
https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/university-of-chicago-covid-booster-shots/
A high school swimmer and a college swimmer “died suddenly”:
Reported on April 21:
Students At Harvard-Westlake Grieve The Tragic Passing Of A 16-Year-Old Swimmer
April 21, 2023
Los Angeles, CA - The 16-year-old junior swimmer who passed away last week after falling in the school pool at Harvard-Westlake will be remembered by classmates at an assembly on Monday. According to a statement from the school, preliminary postmortem findings showed that Justin Carr had cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle condition that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. Carr passed out, and paramedics were dispatched to the school pool. He was brought to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Head of Harvard-Westlake Jeanne M. Huybrechts informed parents through email.
Reported on March 3, 2022:
College swimmer Sydney Benveniste found dead in California
March 3, 2022
Redlands, CA – Sydney Benveniste [21], a sophomore swimmer at Azusa Pacific University in Southern California, died earlier this week. Benveniste's death was announced Wednesday afternoon by the university. No cause of death was given. [Paywall]
Former Texas, New Mexico player Jaden Hullaby found dead after being declared missing by family
May 22, 2023
Jaden Hullaby, who played various positions for Texas and New Mexico, has died, according to statements from both programs and his family. The cause of death was not revealed, but its announcement comes a day after Hullaby's family posted about his disappearance on Twitter. A one-time linebacker for the Longhorns in 2020 and 2021, Hullaby transferred to New Mexico for the 2022 season. "It's such devastating and tragic news to hear of Jaden's passing," said Texas coach Steve Sarkisian in a statement. "He was a great person and someone we all enjoyed being around, coaching and spending time with. All of our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates, and we send our deepest condolences to them in such a difficult time." Hullaby appeared in two games at Texas, both during his first year on campus in 2020. At New Mexico in 2022, he was converted to running back and tight end and finished the season with 13 carries for 59 yards. Hullaby then reentered the transfer portal in early December but had yet to commit to a new team.
No age or cause of death reported.
Two judges “died suddenly”:
Judge Lisa Thornton dies at 59
May 27, 2023
Superior Court Judge Lisa Thornton, the assignment judge in Monmouth County, has died suddenly. She was 59. Thornton, a hugely respected jurist for the last fifteen years, was returning to New Jersey from Florida at the time of her death. Gov. Jon Corzine nominated her to serve on the bench in 2008. She became the assignment judge in 2014 following the retirement of Lawrence Lawson.
No cause of death reported.
Jefferson County judge, 54, dies unexpectedly
May 28, 2023
A Jefferson County [Alabama] judge who presided over cases in the domestic relations division died unexpectedly this weekend, according to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Foundation, where she served as president. Anne Lamkin Durward died May 27, and the cause of death is unknown, according to the organization. She was 54. In addition to her work in the courts and with the foundation, Durward also served as a moot court coach for students at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law.
No cause of death reported.
A lawyer “died suddenly”:
Alexander D. “Alex” Bommarito, 49
May 23, 2023
Freeland, Michigan - Passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday morning May 23, 2023 at St. Mary’s Hospital surrounded by his family at the age of 49 years. The Freeland Athletic Association was important to Alex because of his involvement in sports in high school. He worked his way through law school as a Patent Agent. Following graduation from law school he passed the bar exam in Ohio and the Patent Bar Exam. He remained employed as a patent attorney in Ohio for several years. He was very proud of securing numerous patents for his family’s business. After taking and passing the Michigan Bar Exam, Alex returned to Freeland, Michigan to work in civil litigation for Collison and Collison in Saginaw. In 2011, he achieved another long time goal of opening his own law practice in Freeland, Michigan where he served many clients in a variety of areas.
No cause of death reported.
A coach “died suddenly”:
Makuach Yak, 31
May 27, 2023
A missing youth basketball coach in Florida was found dead nearly a week after police said he was last seen going for a run. Makuach Yak, 31, was found dead Friday evening inside the Delray Oaks Natural Area, a park in Delray Beach, Florida, local authorities said. Yak, a youth basketball coach from Delray Beach, was supposed to coach on May 20 but was nowhere to be found, his friend and business partner, Tate VanRoekel, told ABC West Palm Beach affiliate WPBF. Home security footage shared with WPBF recorded Yak in his front yard around 6:30 a.m. that day in a purple shirt and black shorts, the station reported. VanRoekel told WPBF that Yak's wallet, keys, cellphone and Apple Watch were "all on the counter, just sitting there." In the days since he was reported missing, friends and family have held search parties throughout Delray Beach, a city on Florida's east coast located between West Palm Beach and Boca Raton. Friends also spread the word through a Facebook group, Missing: Find Coach Yak.
No cause of death reported.
Ryan James Carter, 19
May 30, 2023
Lyme, NH - Ryan James Carter, 19, died unexpectedly at home in Lyme on Wednesday May 24, 2023. Ryan attended school in Lyme and graduated from Hanover High School, class of 2022. Immediately following graduation, he began working as a bridge carpenter for R.S. Audley, where he has worked for the past year. Ryan enjoyed all types of sports, both playing and watching them, including playing varsity football at Hanover and helping his younger siblings with basketball. He was also an avid outdoorsman who especially loved to hunt and fish in the woods and streams around his home. He was a natural when it came to building things, and liked helping his father with projects. Most of all, Ryan was a wonderful big brother to his five brothers and sisters, all who adored him.
No cause of death reported.
Vincent S. Barnes Jr., 36
May 29, 2023
Vincent Scott Barnes Jr., 36, of Altoona, PA, died unexpectedly Saturday at UPMC Altoona. He served in the United States Army Infantry and Airborne. He was employed J & P Auto Mart and owned GGK. He enjoyed racing motorcycles, spending time with his children and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.
No cause of death reported.
William Richard “Billy” Centner, 54
May 29, 2023
William Richard “Billy” Centner, 54, of Fredonia, NY, died unexpectedly Friday May 26, 2023 at Buffalo General Hospital. He was a master carpenter and owned and operated WRC Carpentry. Billy was a skilled craftsman who made beautiful cabinets and refinished furniture. He enjoyed the outdoors and loved to fish and hunt. Above all, he was dedicated to family.
No cause of death reported.
Tina E. Nobbe, 55
May 28, 2023
Tina Elizabeth Nobbe, age 55, of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, and formerly of Brookville, died unexpectedly Thursday, May 25, 2023 at her residence in Lawrenceburg. She had worked as an LPN. In her leisure time she cherished time spent with her grandchildren, watching movies, and taking care of her plants.
No cause of death reported.
James C. "Jimmy" Feeney, 58
May 28, 2023
James C. "Jimmy" Feeney of Quincy, MA, formerly of Dorchester, died unexpectedly on May 26, 2023, he was 58. Jimmy was also known as "Jimbo” to his friends. Jimmy will be sorely missed by his best friend and companion, his dog Bradley. He spent many years as a bartender at Whitey's in South Boston and the Peabody Tavern in Dorchester. Anyone who knows Jimmy knows how much he loved his Dunkin' Donuts coffee and his Boston sports teams.
No cause of death reported.
Greyson Gregory Sletto, 32
May 27, 2023
Minot, ND - Greyson Gregory Sletto, beloved father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and grandson died May 14, 2023, at age 32 in Minot. His dad called him “Fred,” and most of his friends know him by that nickname. Greyson was an awesome and wonderful dad to his son Xavier and Xavier’s brothers Abel and Dusty. Greyson loved his three boys and was thrilled when Abel and Dusty called him dad instead of “G.” He took care of all of their needs and provided love, support, and encouragement, including cheering them on from the sidelines of basketball and soccer games and school events. Greyson enjoyed spending time with his boys, family, and friends at Lake Metigoshe, pulling the boys on the inner tube behind the pontoon for hours. His caring personality and big heart live on through his boys.
No cause of death reported.
Carli Danielle Hartwig, 19
May 26, 2023
Carli Danielle Hartwig, 19, of Rome [NY], passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 22, 2023. A 2022 graduate of Rome Free Academy, Carrie had plans of going to college to become a veterinary technician. She was currently self-employed, building a clientele of customers, while performing pet sitting, dog walking and horse care services.
No cause of death reported.
Rosa L. Lamper, 54
May 25, 2023
Rosa L. Lamper, 54, of Jamestown, NY, passed away unexpectedly in her home Saturday May 13, 2023. Rosa was a self-employed beautician for most of her career. During her career as a beautician, she also explored other adventures which include, working with children at the Randolph Academy, Administrative Assistant at Lutheran Social Services, Drove truck for Heil trucking, Northwest Savings Bank in Youngsville, and The Resource Center as a DSP and SDA.
No cause of death reported.
Marcos Soler Donastorg, 56
May 25, 2023
Utica, NY - Marcos Soler Donastorg, age 56, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 22, 2023. Marcos was married to Altagracia Eugenia Santana de Soler in 1999. He was a carpenter by trade.
No cause of death reported.
Virginia Ann Suker-Moldan, 43
May 24, 2023
Virginia Ann Suker-Moldan, age 43 of New Ulm, MN, died unexpectedly on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the New Ulm Medical Center in New Ulm. Growing up in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, Ginny was a 1997 graduate from St. Mary’s High School where she excelled in basketball, volleyball, and softball. Being crowned Homecoming Queen was a reflection of her kind spirit. After high school, Ginny served in the AmeriCorps stationed in Colorado for nearly two years where she was able to give back and make impacts in communities across the country at a young age. She will forever be remembered for her brilliant, generous, and compassionate spirit. She would do anything for someone else in need, and always wanted her daughters to have a good role model to grow into kind, thoughtful, well-rounded women someday.
No cause of death reported.
Douglas Charles Dickinson, 25
May 24, 2023
Douglas Charles Dickinson, a beloved son, brother and friend, passed away at a tragically young age in Anchorage, Alaska, in May 2023. Douglas was born September 17th in the vibrant city of Anchorage he called home. Douglas left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His sudden departure has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends. Douglas will be remembered for his infectious laughter, kind-hearted nature and unwavering loyalty, and an amazing talent for food that he loved to cook for his friends and family. He had a zest for life and a genuine curiosity about the world around him. Those who were fortunate enough to call Douglas a friend admired his compassion and ability to listen without judgment. He had a remarkable talent for making people feel valued and understood, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. His absence will be keenly felt by all who shared his company. Douglas will forever be remembered for his vibrant spirit, kindness and the indelible mark he left on the world. May he rest in eternal peace.
No cause of death reported.
Robert A. Gonyou, 46
May 26, 2023
Norfolk, New York - Arrangements for Robert A. Gonyou, 46, a resident of Norfolk, are incomplete at this time with the Buck Funeral Home in Norfolk. Mr. Gonyou passed away Thursday morning at his home.
No cause of death reported.
Wayne A. Davis, 58
May 24, 2023
Wayne A. Davis, 58, of Alexandria Bay, NY, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 24th. For 28 years Wayne worked for Hood/Crowley Foods, LaFargeville. After retiring he kept busy working part time at the T.I. Bait Store, Phinn’s Redemption Center, and Frontenac Crystal Springs. Wayne was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed participating in many local fishing tournaments with his fishing buddies. He was also incredibly proud of his son’s Air Force career. The family would like to acknowledge the NYS Police, Cape Vincent Ambulance Squad, and the ER staff at Samaritan Medical Center.
No cause of death reported.
Amanda F. Vincent, 38
May 24, 2023
Watertown, New York - Amanda F. Vincent, 38, of Watertown, NY, passed away suddenly on May 24, 2023 at her home. Amanda enjoyed listening to music, watching tv, and playing games. She loved spending time with her family and especially her Beagle.
No cause of death reported.
Edward R. Layton Sr., 61
May 24, 2023
Massena, New York - Edward R. Layton, Sr., 61, unexpectedly passed away Wednesday morning, May 24, 2023 at his home. In 1999, he started his career with the New York State Department of Correctional Services, working at various facilities until his retirement in 2022 from Riverview Correctional Facility. He was a member of the AMVETS Post 4, Massena and enjoyed camping, boating, motorcycling, fishing, and spending time with his family.
No cause of death reported.
Reported on May 20:
James J. Bylow, 64
May 20, 2023
Louisville, New York - James J. Bylow, age 64, passed away unexpectedly at Massena Hospital, on Saturday May 20, 2023. Memorial contributions may be shared with the American Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Massena Humane Society; 177 Massena South Racquette River Rd, P.O. Box 145 Massena, NY 13662.
No cause of death reported.
Reported on May 21:
Elijah Thomas Smith, 2
May 21, 2023
Age 2, died Sunday, May 21, 2023 in Florida. Elijah was born in on September 27, 2020. Elijah loved life, kisses, Kiki his dog, dancing with bubbles while listening to Jelly Roll and Jesus Loves Me, building and knocking down blocks, reading time, food, bath time, outdoors, loud trucks, dinosaurs and face time with family. Elijah touched all lives he came in contact with.
No cause of death reported.
Donald Joseph Cooper, 64
May 21, 2023
Little Falls, NY - Stratford, New York-Donald Joseph Cooper, age 64, of Piseco Road, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Saturday, May 20, 2023.
No cause of death reported.
Reported on May 20:
Ashley Cordell, 36
May 20, 2023
Flint, MI - Passed away on May 20, 2023 after a long illness; age 36. Ashley graduated from Lincoln High School, Warren. She was vibrant and loved life. Ashley’s favorite color was orange, which matched her fierce personality. She will be remembered for her beautiful laugh and contagious smile.
No cause of death reported.
Reported on May 19:
Wendy Nunnery Boswell, 40
May 19, 2023
Wendy Nunnery Boswell, 40, of Chesterfield, VA, passed away suddenly Friday, May 19, 2023. Wendy had a giving heart and will be sorely missed.
No cause of death reported.
Reported on May 18:
Linda Margaret Reger, 60
May 18, 2023
Of Clyde Township, MI, formerly of Clarkston; passed away unexpectedly on May 18, 2023; age 60. Loving mother of Jessica and Kevin J. Reger Jr. Linda will be missed by her fur baby “Mo”.
No cause of death reported.
Stewart L. Planty, 59
May 18, 2023
Sauquoit, NY - Stewart L. Planty, 59, passed away on May 15, 2023 at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare after a brief illness with his family at his side.
No cause of death reported.
Enos Weaver, 34
May 18, 2023
Enos L. Weaver, 1963 Jordanville Road, Jordanville, New York, born September 2,1988 died May 17, 2023 at the age of 34 years, 8 months and 15 days. He was a member of the Little Falls Mennonite Church.
Weaver “died suddenly”:
Jemima's husband, Enos, was taken to the ER with a heart attack on May 16th 2023, and passed away the next day, May 17th, leaving behind his wife and six young children (ages 2 through 12), as well as a farm with eighty animals to take care of.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/inos-and-jemima-weaver
Reported on May 15:
Jeremy “Wormy” Horton, 40
May 15, 2023
Jeremy “Wormy” Horton, 40, of Jonesville, VA, unexpectedly went to his heavenly home to be with his Lord and Savior on May 15, 2023 at UT medical center in Knoxville, TN with his loving family by his side. Jeremy loved his boys more than life itself and teaching them all about the things he loved most fishing, hunting, farming and baseball.
No cause of death reported.
Robert S. Parks, 49
May 15, 2023
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Robert S. Parks, 49, beloved husband of Sandra. He passed away suddenly on April 26, 2023 at his home in Groveland, MA. He was a self-taught chef and loved to share his talent with his family and friends. He was the most thoughtful, kind and generous person and loved to bring people together around the table to enjoy amazing food, choice wines, laughter and conversation. If there wasn't any particular reason to celebrate something or someone, he found one!
No cause of death reported.
From an email from someone who knew Parks:
I don’t have permission from his family to make his obit more public, though it was in the local newspaper. I guess I just wanted his name “added to the list” in an existential way, since no one in his family or mine will acknowledge why he died. The last time I saw him alive, he was talking with my cousin’s husband, whose MD in Singapore admitted that he got myocarditis from the shot. Rob was talking about his own “milder” symptoms after the shots. My knees were weak as I listened to them. And now one of them is dead. And everyone thinks I’m nuts to associate it with the shots. According to them, people have always died suddenly and it’s tragic, but not unusual. Okey dokey. God bless you for saying this is NOT normal.
Reported on May 8:
Mary Ann Greene, 32
May 8, 2023
Parkersburg, WV - Mary Ann Greene, aged 32, passed away on May 8th, 2023. She was a beloved mother, sister, daughter, cousin, and niece who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She had the ability to put smiles on the faces around her and bring joy to everyone who knew her.
No cause of death reported.
This is beyond gross. It is criminal.
And so fucking blatant.
I get annoyed with people complaining that we blame too much on the covid shots. There is a huge unexplained increase in excess deaths all across the western world. Something horrible is happening. Anyone refusing to believe its the shots should still be horrified and trying to explain the huge increase. And no, we are not accepting climate change as the reason.