Tamia John was celebrating her 11th birthday, Saturday, May 20, 2017 while swimming with friends when tragically she was pulled out too deep by the current in  Lake Whitney and drowned. Her father, Benjamin Nvazi was nearby and heroically jumped in to try to save her but lost his life despite his valiant efforts. Tamia was a vibrant and outgoing 5th grader at Hillsboro Intermediate School. She was looking forward to the end-of-school activities. Ben Nvazi worked as ballistic engineer in Milford and had a kind and loving heart as he served as a prison minister in local jails.

Mother and wife, Schivonne John, a beloved high school teacher in Hillsboro also has a 14 month old daughter, Tea and is expecting another child. As you can imagine, no parent or wife is prepared for such a tragedy. She is in shock and deeply saddened by the sudden loss. Please keep her family, friends, and classmates in your prayers, as we grieve the loss of these two beautiful souls.

ALL donations will be given directly to Mrs. John.