## A Legacy Beyond the Pulpit: Remembering Memphis Pastor Ricky Floyd
The tech world moves fast, but sometimes the most impactful stories come from off the grid. This week, the loss of Memphis pastor Ricky Floyd hit home, reminding us that even in a digital age, human connection and community are more crucial than ever.
The Circumstances Surrounding Ricky Floyd’s Death
The Shooting Incident
Ricky Floyd, the senior lead pastor at Pursuit of God Church in Frayser, was tragically shot and killed outside a Downtown Memphis bar early Wednesday morning. According to the Memphis Police Department, officers responded to a shooting at 855 Kentucky St., between the Eagle Distributing Company and Momma’s Bar and Grill, before 1:20 a.m. Wednesday.
The bar’s owner, Eric Bourgeois, stated that the shooting took place in the street and not a parking lot. A man was found dead outside the bar, later identified as Ricky Floyd. A woman, 42-year-old Samantha Marion, was detained and arrested and charged with voluntary manslaughter later Wednesday morning.
An affidavit posted in court documents alleges that Floyd and Marion got into an argument inside the bar. Floyd eventually left the bar, and Marion left with two other people – Keisha Smith and Steven Newsom – who were part of the argument. “While talking outside, they advised that Floyd returned and became irate and aggressive towards all three of them,” the affidavit read.
Police said in the affidavit that Floyd could be seen on surveillance footage throwing Marion’s phone and then throwing a beer can before getting into his car and driving away. “Marion walks out into the roadway and appears to be recording his vehicle with her cell phone,” the affidavit continued. “Floyd stops his vehicle, exits, and walks toward Marion. Smith is seen getting between them, creating some distance between Marion and Floyd. Video then shows Marion walk towards Floyd, who begins walking backwards, away from her. As he backs away, he is seen falling to the ground and does not get back up after that.”
Smith advised that Marion shot Floyd in the roadway.
The Investigation and Charges
The investigation into Floyd’s death is ongoing, with the Memphis Police Department working to gather evidence and piece together the events leading up to the shooting. As of now, Samantha Marion has been charged with voluntary manslaughter, a felony offense that carries a maximum penalty of six years in prison.
The affidavit and surveillance footage have provided crucial evidence in the case, highlighting the events leading up to Floyd’s death. The footage shows Marion and Floyd arguing outside the bar, with Marion eventually shooting Floyd in the roadway.
The Affidavit and Surveillance Footage
The affidavit and surveillance footage have shed light on the tragic events surrounding Floyd’s death. The footage shows Floyd and Marion arguing outside the bar, with Marion eventually shooting Floyd in the roadway.
The affidavit details the events leading up to the shooting, including the argument between Floyd and Marion inside the bar. Floyd eventually leaves the bar, and Marion leaves with two other people – Keisha Smith and Steven Newsom – who were part of the argument.
The surveillance footage shows Floyd throwing Marion’s phone and then throwing a beer can before getting into his car and driving away. Marion is seen walking out into the roadway and appears to be recording Floyd’s vehicle with her cell phone. Floyd stops his vehicle, exits, and walks toward Marion, with Smith getting between them to create some distance. Video then shows Marion walking towards Floyd, who begins walking backwards, away from her. As he backs away, he is seen falling to the ground and does not get back up after that.
Implications and Next Steps
The Impact of Gun Violence on the Community
The tragic death of Ricky Floyd is a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on our community. Gun violence has taken too many lives, shattered too many families, and left too many communities in grief.
The Memphis community is still reeling from the loss of Floyd, a beloved leader, friend, mentor, and servant to the city. His death is a loss not only for his family and congregation but also for the entire city of Memphis.
The Role of Community Leaders in Addressing Gun Violence
Community leaders, such as pastors and public officials, play a critical role in addressing gun violence and building safer communities. They can work to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, promote trust and understanding, and advocate for policies and programs that address the root causes of gun violence.
Rev. Bill Adkins, pastor at Greater Imani Church, the Cathedral of Faith in Frayser, was a close friend of Floyd’s. He remembered Floyd as “a beacon of hope” in the Frayser community, who did much for many people.
Memphis City Council Chairman Ford Canale called Floyd a “pillar of strength” and an advocate for change in Memphis. “Pastor Floyd was more than a spiritual leader – he was a pillar of strength, a relentless advocate for change, and a guiding force for hope and transformation in our city,” Canale said.
The Pursuit of God Church’s Response and Next Steps
The Pursuit of God Church has released a statement on Floyd’s death, expressing their deep sorrow and gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. They have also announced plans for memorial services and honoring Floyd’s legacy.
The church has asked for patience and understanding as they make the necessary arrangements to honor Floyd’s life and legacy. Arrangements for Floyd’s funeral and memorial services are forthcoming.
Conclusion
A Lasting Legacy: Remembering Pastor Ricky Floyd’s Impact
As the community mourns the loss of Pastor Ricky Floyd, officials and residents of Memphis are left to grapple with the void left by the beloved leader. The article highlights Floyd’s tireless efforts to bring about positive change through his tireless work at Faith Missionary Baptist Church. Floyd’s unwavering dedication to his congregation and the city at large is a testament to the enduring power of faith and compassion. The outpouring of support and solidarity from the community is a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can have on the lives of others.
The significance of Floyd’s passing cannot be overstated, as it serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living each day with purpose and intention. The article also underscores the need for continued community engagement and support for initiatives that promote social justice and upliftment. As Memphis moves forward in the face of this loss, it is essential to hold onto the values and principles that Floyd embodied, and to continue working towards a brighter future for all its citizens. The memory of Pastor Floyd will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate the community to strive for a better tomorrow.
