Savana Pendarvis, a beautiful 27 yo, had a radiant smile that outshone her golden ringlets. She was full of life—a recent college graduate, dreaming of a career in Human Resources, fresh from her first trip to Europe, and excited for her cousin’s wedding and more adventures. Tragically, on January 2, 2026, she was killed in a horrific hit-and-run on University Boulevard in Jacksonville, FL. A man in a stolen car sped over 100 mph, rear-ended her vehicle, causing it to spin into a pole and burst into flames. Savana could not be saved. Other victims survived with injuries. The driver fled and remains at large—please contact Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office with any information. News reporting of Savana's tragic accident

Savana lost her mother at age 5 and was raised by her grandmother, Martha Zaner (74). In recent years, Savana became Martha’s devoted caretaker, especially now as Martha prepares for breast cancer surgery next week. Just days earlier I celebrated New Year's Eve with the family and the evening was filled with laughter, a seafood boil, and board games. No one imagined this would be their last time with Savana.

Martha is now grieving the loss of her granddaughter and caretaker while facing major surgery. Funeral expenses add a heavy burden to this heartbreak. We are raising funds to cover Savana’s funeral costs and support Martha and the family during this devastating time. Every donation helps us honor Savana’s memory and ease the pain of this tragedy.

I asked the family including Martha and Natalie Nevseta—Savanna’s aunt and Martha’s beloved daughter—if I could set up a fundraiser on their behalf. The family agreed. Natalie is a childhood friend and Martha has been like a mother to me. I had the incredible blessing of watching Savana grow up and blossom to a beautiful young lady.

We were all completely overwhelmed (in the best way) when the donation goal was not just met, but surpassed in just one single day. That kind of outpouring of love, so swift and so generous, can only come from hearts that truly know what Savana and this family mean to so many of us.

Thank you for opening your hearts during one of the hardest moments anyone can face. Your prayers will continue to provide comfort. Your financial support, words can never fully express their gratitude. Every gift, every shared post, every quiet thought sent their way—it all matters. Thank you, truly.

Savana's Celebration of Life will be at the Ribault Garden Club January 24th 2026 at 11am-2pm (705 2nd Avenue N, Jacksonville Beach FL 32250).