Tragic Loss in Newberry: Memorial Service Planned for Young Mother and Son
Columbia, S.C. —
In the heart of South Carolina, the small community of Newberry is grappling with heartbreak following a tragic accident that claimed the lives of a beloved mother and her young son. LaRhonda Gibson, 47, and her one-year-old son, Ketron Gibson, Jr., are being remembered as spirited souls by family and friends. A memorial service to honor their lives is scheduled for Friday, September 6, at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia, beginning at 11 a.m.
Details of the Incident
The devastating crash occurred in the early morning hours of Thursday when the South Carolina Highway Patrol reported an accident on I-26 West near mile marker 90. At approximately 2:45 AM, LaRhonda and Ketron were traveling in their Nissan sedan when they found themselves caught in slow traffic behind a tractor-trailer. Tragically, a Dodge Ram pickup truck, unable to stop in time, collided with their vehicle. The impact was so severe that it pushed the Nissan into the back of the tractor-trailer, resulting in both LaRhonda and her infant son’s untimely deaths.
A Community in Mourning
The news of LaRhonda and Ketron’s passing has shaken the tight-knit community of Newberry. Friends and family describe LaRhonda as a devoted mother who cherished every moment spent with her son. She was known for her warm spirit, infectious laughter, and the love she poured into her family. The little boy, only one year old, was adored by everyone, with his playful demeanor and bright eyes that could light up any room.
A Celebration of Life
The celebration of life will be an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to come together, share stories, and remember the joy LaRhonda and Ketron brought into their lives. The service, taking place at Brookland Baptist Church, promises to be both a solemn occasion and a heartfelt tribute to the bond they shared. It is a time for reflection on their lives and the impact they had on those around them.
Grief and Support
As the community prepares for the memorial service, support networks are forming to help those affected by the tragedy. Local organizations are stepping in to offer grief counseling and resources to help families cope with the unexpected loss. Friends of the family are rallying together to ensure that LaRhonda and Ketron are remembered in a way that celebrates their lives, not just their passing.
The Importance of Road Safety
This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and the unpredictability of driving conditions, especially during late-night hours. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent such heartbreaking accidents from occurring in the future. They emphasize the importance of staying alert, especially when approaching slowed or stopped traffic.
A Lasting Memory
As community members reflect on the lives of LaRhonda and Ketron, they hold onto memories of laughter, love, and cherished moments. This loss, while deeply painful, also cultivates a sense of unity within the community as they come together to support one another and honor the legacy left behind by this beautiful mother and son.
LaRhonda and Ketron will be missed dearly, but their spirits will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. The memorial service on September 6 will not just be a farewell, but a celebration of life, love, and cherished memories.
