Background of the Tragic Incident

On Memorial Day weekend, tragedy struck as three friends, including parents Varick Lawrence and Destiny Gardner, lost their lives in a fatal car crash in Forest Park, Georgia. The collision occurred on May 23, when their vehicle was involved in an incident near Interstate 75 and Old Dixie Road, sending shockwaves through the community.

Lawrence and Gardner, who welcomed their son Zaire just nine months ago, were preparing to celebrate their love with a wedding. Their sudden passing, described as a devastating blow by loved ones, leaves behind a young child and unfulfilled dreams.

Sieas Elliott, a dedicated Stillman College student and aspiring educator, was also among the deceased. His return to campus for the upcoming academic year highlighted his commitment to building a future in early childhood education. The college community mourns the loss of these promising young lives, each remembered for their warmth and passion.

Victims and Their Connections to Stillman College

Destiny Gardner and Varick Lawrence, alumni of Stillman College, are being remembered not only for their academic achievements but also for their vibrant spirits. The couple had dreams of a future together, planning a wedding as they embraced their role as parents to their 9-month-old son, Zaire. Their connection to Stillman College was a profound aspect of their lives, where they fostered friendships and connections that lasted beyond graduation.

Both Gardner, with a degree in criminal justice, and Lawrence, a talented baseball player, were deeply involved in their community. Gardner worked as a juvenile officer, showcasing her commitment to making a difference in young lives. Lawrence, freshly graduated in 2023, continued to inspire others as a baseball coach. Their dedication to service left a lasting impact on classmates and the larger Stillman community.

Sieas Elliott, a current student at Stillman College, was on the path to becoming an early childhood educator. Known for his enthusiasm and commitment, Elliott was a student assistant baseball coach and shared a brotherhood with Lawrence in the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. His dreams and aspirations echoed the values celebrated at Stillman, fostering a sense of purpose and community.

The tragic loss of these three friends has sent ripples of sorrow throughout the Stillman College family. Dr. Yolanda W. Page emphasized the shared grief felt by all as they mourn this heartbreaking loss. Their memories and the legacies they leave behind will continue to inspire current and future generations, reminding everyone of the warm smiles and dedication to service that defined their time at Stillman College.

Community Response and Tributes to the Deceased

In the wake of the tragic car crash that took the lives of Destiny Gardner, Varick Lawrence, and Sieas Elliott, the Stillman College community has rallied together to honor their memories. Students, faculty, and local residents have expressed their profound sorrow and support for the grieving families through social media and memorial gatherings.

A memorial service has been organized at Stillman College, where friends and family will share cherished memories of the trio. The event aims to celebrate their lives, highlighting the impact they made on those around them and the spirit they brought to the college community.

In addition to the memorial service, numerous GoFundMe campaigns have been established to assist the families during this devastating time. The community's outpouring of generosity showcases the love and respect held for Gardner, Lawrence, and Elliott, as supporters aim to alleviate the financial burden of unexpected funeral costs.

As the community comes together to remember the three friends, tributes continue to pour in from classmates, coaches, and mentors. They reflect on the joy, laughter, and camaraderie that Gardner, Lawrence, and Elliott shared and how their legacies will forever be a part of the Stillman family.

The Impact on Families and Future Plans

The tragic deaths of Destiny Gardner, Varick Lawrence, and Sieas Elliott resonate deeply within their families, leaving behind an unimaginable void. The loss of Gardner and Lawrence, parents of a baby boy, Zaire, has shattered the dreams of their loved ones, who were eagerly anticipating their wedding. Lawrence's grandmother, Dot Mitchell, expressed the heartbreak felt by the family, stating, “We should be planning a wedding, not funerals.”

With their lives ahead of them, both Gardner and Lawrence were engaged in meaningful careers and community service. Gardner had recently graduated with a degree in criminal justice and worked as a juvenile officer, while Lawrence was coaching baseball after completing his studies earlier in 2023. Their untimely passing not only robs their son of his parents but also deprives the community of two vibrant individuals committed to making a difference.

The impact on their son, Zaire, is profound. With both parents gone, family and friends are now rallying to ensure he is cared for and loved, providing support in this incredibly challenging time. Additionally, memorial funds and initiatives have sprung up, showing the community's commitment to upholding the legacies left behind by Gardner, Lawrence, and Elliott.

As their lives and dreams are mourned, the community is focused on honoring their memories. Plans are in place to celebrate the accomplishments of all three friends, whose spirits continue to shine brightly. Though their future plans were tragically halted, their impact on family, friends, and the community will endure as a testament to their lives and the love they fostered.