Instant friend....
It's crazy how I'm still getting calls from DTLR Hanes Mall customers asking if it's really true! I try not to think about it as much as the days go by, you know Neka tried to be the strong one! But it's hard to remain strong when you hear the old staff break down over the phone! You were definitely an Earth Angel and although you're no longer here with us in the physical, I know in my heart that your position will not change and you will continue to watch over those of us who's lives you've touched! Shanice and I were just dying laughing about the time we were at Eastland trying to prepare you for that wedding and those PUMPS you had to wear! You were so mad at us "girlie girls" for laughing at that walk! Nothing but good memories we all have for you because your good outweighed the bad! I will forever keep and cherish them! Love ya Playa!!!
Missing you...
It's amazing how everyone has shared different moments and memories with you T, but the underlying fact is that we were all blessed enough to experience your greatness. Your vibrance and aura was truly amazing, one of a kind for sure. It was always a party when you walked in, just your presence alone lifted peoples spirits and made them smile. You definitely had that affect on me, I never had to see you coming, but as soon as I heard someone yell "Nassa", I knew it was you. That smile, the jokes, those dances, unforgettable. I wish everyone could've seen you on the softball field, pure comedy! You weren't the best, but you tried and Coco definitely needed that runner lol. I wasn't as close to you as many others were, but there were times when you were there for me when no one else was, I always appreciated that and still do.
Well T, my friend, my teammate, I will truly miss you. You may not be physically present, but you're still with us and we will carry the memories in our hearts. I know for sure I'll always think of you when I hear any Pretty Ricky song lol. And of course NO ONE can ever forget the famous cheers "burn baby burn baby oooo oooo oooo oooooo" and "work it work it, work it JC".
Gone, never forgotten, and forever loved! Thoughts and prayers with your family and friends!
Love you sis!
Nessa (the other #10 with the puffball)
From LGB to ZPHIB
Sigh...
I had a few good moments the last two days (minus the can't sleep part) just reflecting on all the memories we shared. When I met you my first year at Smith in the gym/registration in Fall of 2003 with the rest of you trouble making freshmen (Snowflake/Shayla/Brittni/Nash) I knew that I was going to have my hands full. You just had a positive energy that naturally draws people to you and that’s rare to find. As teammates I remember all the good times we shared together, the time you me and AT jumped the gate at Carowinds because we didn't have money to pay to get in (hey we were college students) when you got mad at me for challenging you on the court, and our Dory and Marlin moment (just keep swimming).
Although we shared many moments together as teammates, our bond became stronger when we both had that long conversation about why we wanted to join Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, and was worried that we couldn't do it because we had a heavy basketball schedule. But we made it through together with the help of our two sisters Anika and Yashica. On April 14, 2006 the four of us crossed over into the land of Zeta and because we made that decision, that became one of the happiest and memorable moments of my life (not to mention the process itself). You are truly the definition of a FINERWOMEN "you've always answered the call for Zeta and for your sisters and for that I am forever grateful. Your light of Zeta will forever shine and Tiana always remember that my love for you is infinite!!
I know the power of prayer, the belief in God’s word, and the trust that I have in him and that is what’s keeping me strong. It hasn't been easy, but he's never failed me.
Ms. Pope, you are truly a strong women and God bless you for allowing us the opportunity to share this time with you and giving life to such and amazing person.
Dave, I want you to know that you have a host of sisters that will love and care for you. I am constantly praying for you and the rest of your family and friends.
“Another Dove Soars"!
Love Always,
Judene (Ju-Ju) (Saɸre)
Memories
Going Home
Tiana left a few months back to head home to help her Mom after having surgery. I learned the night before she left that she was leaving from work and would arrive late in the evening in Georgia. She was to travel alone. Something inside me suddenly was so scared for her. I made her promise to let me know when she arrived, which she did. Before she left, we hugged goodbye. I asked her to be so careful and to come back to us. She promised she would. I cried for some reason. She hugged me tighter and said "Please don't cry...I'm a softy when it comes to tears..."
We had Tiana with us a few more months afterwards...Thank God.
Love You.
I remember we were walking out from work a few weeks ago, and you asked me about my son and how old he was. You said "When ever I decide to have kids, I want to have a son so I won't have to do his hair" we then laughed together and agreed on that, and I just got so much joy from that simple conversation. Tiana you have truly been a special individual to so many people and have touched so many lives. My heart goes out to your family and friends during this time. Although you may not be here physically you are here spiritually and your memory remains forever in our hearts. I want you to know that you will never ever be forgotten, heaven has gained a precious beautiful Angel!
Love always,
Keya
Fairy Godmother
lil bo peep ;)
Love always,
Ro
That Precious Smile
I write this on behalf of Ms. Tiana Lazette Pope. This beautiful woman was soft spoken yet vibrant. She was so gifted and talented. She knew how to make you smile and laugh. When you came in contact with her the smile became infectious. Her flesh will be missed. However, her life will have great meaning to many young and old who have crossed her path. Her legacy will be left behind in many athletic halls.
To the parents of Tiana Pope I say : Thank you for gracing us with this precious child and her smile. She was unique and wonderfully made. Well mannered and hard working. She loved you dearly.
To Dave pleaase know she had you on her heart and mind all the time. She will always watch over you and guide you. Tune in to God and the spirit and you will hear her and feel her when you need her.
To her close friends please remember the laughter and the good times. The road trips and the competitions. She was a dynamic leader on point. Now she has passed the final shot to you. People come into our lives for a reason, season, or a lifetime. Only you and God can determine what your personal relationship was to accomplish. Was she telling you to always smile in life regardless. Or, to simply slow down. Seek GOD and he will show you how to take this particular journey you had with Tiana and go from here. Make her life count and heed the message.
Please use this website to share all your memories to the Mom and her brother for years to come.
Love you all. God Bless
With Love and Prayers.
Crystal Bodie Smith