There is an African proverb that says, “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."

In times of unimaginable loss, the power of community shines brightest. On Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the seemingly healthy age of 27, Selara Mann, III, (affectionately known by many as “Lera,” “Man Man,” “Selara the 3rd,”and “Tre”), passed away suddenly in his sleep. Selara did not have life insurance, so not only has this sudden, unexpected loss left his family and the communities he touched shaken to the core, but it has also left his family with a financial strain and trepidation for their future. Selara leaves behind a wife, Nataysia and two beautiful children - his daughter Symphani (4 years old) and son Selara R. Mann IV (1 year old). Selara lived a life filled with love, music, faith, and devotion to family.

Who was Selara you ask? His life was rooted in love, faith, and service. Even while facing financial struggles and raising two small children, he gave free drum lessons to children with special needs - not because he had to, but because he felt called to make a difference. Selara’s drum lessons were a gift to the kids he worked with. He gave his time, energy, and heart to help them express themselves through music. His music brought hope and joy into their lives. He saw their potential even when others didn’t. The families he touched cherish the joy and confidence he brought to their children. One parent shared, “Selara saw my child's potential and helped him shine."

His selflessness is a constant inspiration to us all to make a difference in our own communities. Selara’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched, and his family and the community will feel his love and generosity forever.

Selara’s music wasn't just about rhythm; it was about connection, love, faith, and community. Not only did his drum lessons bring joy to his students, his performances lit up stages. Just days before his passing, Selara was preparing to embark on a new tour with The Temptations band - a dream opportunity that would have finally placed his family on stronger financial ground. But, tragically, before he could take that next step, stress and undiagnosed health issues took him from this world. Without life insurance or health coverage, Selara’s family now faces an overwhelming financial burden alongside their unimaginable grief.

Selara gave so much of himself to all who knew him; we are asking the community for help in giving back to his family. While his children have lost a huge light in their life, our goal is to raise funds so that they aren’t in total darkness forever. Together, we can help them rebuild their lives and honor the legacy of Selara. Your generous donations can make a profound difference. Every contribution—whether large or small - can help his family grieve while also being able to be free of the financial burden this loss has inevitably left.

Every donation will:

* support Nataysia and the children’s day-to-day needs as they adjust to life without Selara

* assist with living arrangements as Nataysia and the kids move in with family to rebuild stability

* establish a long-term fund for Symphani and Selara IV, ensuring they have opportunities to pursue college, career training, or any dream that honors their father’s legacy.

Selara’s life was a testament to kindness, generosity, and faith. It is a time of great loss for the Mann family - a grief that will not pass quickly. Let’s come together, as a community (both friends, strangers, and family) so that the children don’t have to go alone, so that they can have a future that goes far. Rally with us to lift up the family he loved so deeply and ensure that his children’s futures reflect the same love and promise he shared with the world.