TalkLoss

06/02/2026

06/02/2026

We are sorry to share the news that Robert Vandenbergh, who served as the 2001-2002 NFDA President, recently died.

Please keep the Vandenbergh family in your thoughts and prayers.

Robert's obituary: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/rochester-mi/robert-vandenbergh-12901142

06/02/2026

Heartbreaking update💔 | The body of a missing 20-year-old man has been recovered in a wooded area behind an East Point apartment complex following a month-long search, according to his family. WHAT WE KNOW🔽

06/02/2026

Amari Clarke, 17: Remembered as a Kind-Hearted Son, Future Elevator Technician, and Light in Hillcrest Heights |

Amari Clarke, 17, was a beloved senior at Suitland High School in Maryland, a kind-hearted young man, and devoted son whose life ended tragically on May 8, 2026, in the Hillcrest Heights community of Prince George's County.
Amari was described by his family as "kind-hearted" and "sweet"—a young man who enjoyed playing video games and basketball, dreamed of becoming an elevator technician, and was just three weeks away from graduating high school. He had a career planned, a future ahead, and a lifetime of firsts waiting for him.
According to Prince George's County Police Department, the incident occurred outside Amari's home in the Marlow Towers Condominiums community on St. Barnabas Road. Amari was transported to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Personal belongings were taken during the incident. The investigation remains active, and no arrests have been announced at this time.
On Mother's Day, Amari's mother, Tiana Clarke, issued a public plea for anyone with information to come forward. Her courage and love for her son inspire the community to support one another and seek answers with compassion.
Amari is remembered by family, friends, teachers, and classmates for his spirit, his potential, and the light he brought to the Suitland High School community. His loved ones have requested privacy during this profound time of grief.
📞 If you have information:
• Prince George's County Police Department: [Contact via official county website]
• Anonymous Tips: Contact PG County Crime Solvers
💙 Supporting youth, families, and communities affected by violence, trauma, or grief:
• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (422-4453)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline: Call/text 988 | 988lifeline.org
• Maryland-specific resources: mdcoalitiondv.org (Maryland Coalition Against Domestic Violence)
• School-Based Mental Health Support: schoolmentalhealth.org
Help is confidential, free, and available 24/7. You are not alone.

06/01/2026

When I first heard that Spencer leak had passed, I assumed it was his father and I remember thinking how will Jr process this loss. Minutes later I begin hearing it was Jr. How possibly can his father, mother, brothers, children and the profession process such a profound loss? Well we must talk about our loss (TalkLoss).
Spencer was an incredible person. As large as he was professionally, you had his phone number. Always responding to texts, asking questions, and letting you know how he felt about a situation.
My thoughts and prayers are with his mother and father. Henrietta Leak has always been fiercely protective of her family. I cannot imagine the heart break that this beautiful woman is experiencing. Spencer Sr, a kind and gentle spirit, I am sure is overwhelmed by the loss of his namesake.
His son III, who Jr had celebrated daily on his FB page has such a legacy to follow but also must process the loss of a man that showed his love and respect for his son so publicly and awesomely over this past month; graduation and joining the family business as the newest employee.
And then there is Emma, his daughter. Also, publicly sharing his proud dad moments. Her graduation from college and how proud he was of her. I will not forget the billboard celebrating her achievements gracing the expressways.
As funeral directors we are professionals who show others how to grieve. Honestly, I do not believe we do it very well for ourselves. I have been deeply disturbed by Spencer's passing. What has touched me about him is that he was a good and decent person. He cared about people and tried to give his best. And if he felt he fell short of the mark, he would personally let you know; thereby exceeding it all expectations.
In one of my last conversations, I had done a video (did not call any names) but expressed my disappointment with the MEO meeting, in which, we were on the opposite sides of addressing an issue. Spencer walked up to me and said,
"done any new videos? I said, no. He smiled and said, good. Put his hand on my shoulder, smiled and walked away. He had made his point, I had made mine and we moved on. Spencer earned my respect because he was that Man. A good, kind professional that simply wanted the best for all he encountered and the families he served.
May God grant his biological family, and his extended family clarity and peace that surpasses all earthly understanding and may Spencer Leak, Jr be granted eternal peace as his ancestors receive his kind spirit. Peace be with you. ❤️

Gregory Derek Lennon, FD

05/10/2026

Condolences to Walter S. Holloway family.

"Walter S. Holloway, 31, Remembered After South Philadelphia Incident; Community Seeks Answers"

Walter S. Holloway, 31, a Philadelphia man, lost his life around 10 p.m. near the intersection of 21st and Wharton streets. Officers responded within seconds of hearing an incident; Walter was transported to a local hospital and later passed. Evidence suggests the event may have stemmed from a previous altercation. No arrests have been reported; the Philadelphia Police Department continues to investigate. Walter is remembered by family, friends, and community.

05/10/2026

So tragic!