Family, friends, and members of the Hattiesburg community gathered at Vernon Dahmer Park to honor the life of 3‑year‑old Okoye Ny’ree Mixon, who died in an accidental shooting on April 20. The memorial took place during PRVO Head Start/Early Head Start’s annual May Day Family Fun Day in the Park, an event that unexpectedly shifted from celebration to remembrance.
Okoye’s mother, Rhea Mixon, described her daughter as a bright, joyful child whose name carried deep meaning. “Her name kind of expresses who she was; it means warrior of grace,” she said, reflecting on the strength and gentleness Okoye embodied in her short life. Community members echoed this sentiment, remembering her as a child who brought warmth and energy to everyone around her.
The tragedy occurred at the family’s home in Hattiesburg, where Okoye’s siblings discovered the accident and attempted to get help. The emotional toll on the family has been profound, especially for her older brothers, ages 12 and 13, who were deeply affected by the traumatic experience. The loss has made their current home a painful reminder, prompting the family to seek a fresh start surrounded by extended relatives.
Rhea Mixon, a single mother of three, has lived in Hattiesburg for four years but plans to return to Mobile, Alabama, where most of her family resides. She believes being closer to loved ones and counseling resources will help her children heal. The financial burden of transporting Okoye’s remains, arranging cremation, and relocating has been overwhelming, especially without a life insurance policy for her youngest child.
In the midst of her grief, Rhea made the selfless decision to donate Okoye’s organs and tissue, hoping her daughter’s legacy could bring life and healing to others. Community members have rallied around the family, offering prayers, emotional support, and financial assistance through a verified fundraiser created to help them navigate funeral costs, moving expenses, and the transition to a new home.
As the community continues to mourn, Okoye’s memory remains a unifying force—one that has brought neighbors, educators, and loved ones together in compassion. The gathering at Vernon Dahmer Park served not only as a tribute to a life cut tragically short but also as a reminder of the strength found in collective support. For many, honoring Okoye means ensuring her family is surrounded with care as they begin the long journey toward healing.
