Faheem Thomas-Childs Obituary

By Vernon Clark and Thomas J. Gibbons Jr.
Inquirer Staff Writer

Faheem Thomas-Childs, the 10-year-old who had been the focus of hopes and prayers since he was shot in the face Wednesday morning while walking to school, died yesterday of his wounds.

The third grader, who was called a "peacemaker" by his teacher at T.M. Peirce Elementary School in North Philadelphia, was pronounced dead at 4:15 p.m. at Temple University Children's Medical Center, sources said.

Cathie Abookire, spokeswoman for the District Attorney's Office, said charges against the two men arrested over the weekend in connection with the case would be updated to murder today.

Faheem's home on Lehigh Avenue was dark last night. Members of his family, who had kept vigil at the hospital despite the grim prognosis after the shooting, were not available. He had been unconscious from the moment he was wounded.

Faheem and a crossing guard, Debra Smith, were wounded outside Peirce, at 23d and Cambria Streets, by stray gunfire about 8:30 a.m. during a shoot-out between rival gangs. Smith, who was shot in the foot, was treated and released at Temple University Hospital last week.

That gun battle unleashed a blizzard of nearly 100 shots in the area as children were arriving for school.

The shooting, coming as it did with apparent disregard for the well-being of children making their way to school, captured the city's attention, with police and activists calling for witnesses to come forward, and a reward totaling $75,000 for information leading to the perpetrators. On Sunday, churches across the city offered prayers for Faheem.

Over the weekend, two men from the neighborhood, Kennell Spady, 19, of the 3000 block of Bonsall Street, and Kareem Johnson, 20, of the 2900 block of Taney Street, were arrested and charged with attempted murder and aggravated assault in the shootings. Police said that the gun battle involved about six people and that the others were still being sought.

During his brief life, Faheem impressed people who knew him. He was an A-plus student and a classroom leader, his third-grade teacher, Robert Cunningham, said in an interview last week.

"A real peacemaker"

"He's polite, gentle," Cunningham said. "He was a real peacemaker."

As Faheem lay dying yesterday, police and community activists in North Philadelphia stepped up their appeal for information about the shooting by plastering the neighborhood with leaflets and posters.

"We're giving them to people, leaving them on cars and on doors," Inspector Joe Sullivan, commander of the police Narcotics Division, said of the leaflets he and about a dozen officers were circulating in the neighborhood where Faheem was shot.

Sullivan, who was riding with another officer on a bicycle patrol, said officers were on bikes, in cruisers and on foot as they distributed flyers calling for the community's help in the Gun Recovery Reward Information Program, a citywide effort to get illegal guns off the streets.

He said he was also asking area merchants to display posters about the program in their shops. "All we ask is that their information leads to an arrest and confiscation of a firearm," Sullivan said.

Fear to come forward

Police Sgt. Irvin Riley, who was among officers distributing the leaflets door-to-door to Faheem's neighbors in the 2200 block of Lehigh Avenue, said getting people to overcome their fear and come forward with information was difficult.

"The fear is about retaliation against family members," Riley said. Area residents "know it's the right thing to do," he said, "but they are scared. We try to let them know the information is anonymous, but it's a tough sell."

Riley, who said his family used to operate a store at 15th and Dauphin Streets, said he knew the area well and understood the reluctance to give information to police. "I know the people here; some can't go anywhere else." Riley said. "As police, you try to make life a little easier for them."

After opening his door to receive a leaflet from police, David Chapman, who has lived in the 2200 block of Lehigh since 1959, said, "I've never seen crime this bad, and it's escalating. We can't even sit on our porches."

Chapman, who lives only a few doors from Faheem, said he knew the child as a happy boy who romped with friends in the neighborhood.

"I've seen him running up and down the street like any other kid," Chapman said. "He was friendly and respectful."

Published by Philadelphia Inquirer/Philadelphia Daily News on Feb. 17, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Faheem Thomas-Childs

Not sure what to say?





167 Entries

I was just sitting at home. Don't know why I thought of Little Faheem. I had not thought of him for a few years.
I am one of the ATF Agents that worked his case. Realizing he would be 25 years old. So sad.
Blessings to his family and friends. I will never forget that little boy I never met.

John

June 3, 2019

Everytime i wake up i see your face. I cant help but miss you. Whyd you have to go. Rip to the coolest kid on the planet

David Brown

Friend

January 19, 2019

I miss u baby boy it is the year 2017 u would be 23 years old,wow what would you be doing now.

Patricia Arnold

April 26, 2017

R.I.P. LIL Heem NEVER FORGOTTEN LIL BROSKI

Wayne Patterson

April 3, 2017

You will always be missed rip .

Shandell Jackson

February 11, 2017

I Miss You Popi!! Love Your Cousin, Jenny!!

Jennifer Arnold

April 12, 2014

This is your big cousin Jenny just stopping by to say I love you and miss you and thank you for guiding through my hard times! GOD BLESS you and may you rest in peace...see you when I get there !!!

Jennifer Arnold

May 30, 2013

I MISS YOU BABY SO MUCH I LOVE EVERYBODY THAT SEND ME AND MY FAMILY PRAYERS THANKS SO VERY MUCH FAHEEM MOTHER PATRICIA ARNOLD AND FAMILY LOVE FOREVERY CHILDS FAMILY.

PATRICIA ARNOLD

March 26, 2013

God bless you young man!! You will not be forgotten RIP

November 2, 2012

awwwwwwwwwww lil faheem u will never be forgotten

samaira simmons

October 24, 2012

Dear Patricia and family,
Faheem will never be forgotten. His life and death profoundly affected all of us.
May God comfort you wonderful family,
Verde Fisher
Third grade Teacher
T. M. Peirce

Verde Fisher

September 22, 2012

God bless u lil man. It been a long time. We all wishing that u was here with us. Its hurting more and more that's your gone and just know we all love you Faheem.

LOVE
David Simpson

david simpson

July 25, 2012

May the father comfort you in your time of need...I pray for your strength and your family concerning the loss of your beloved child.

sheena jones

June 7, 2011

Rest well Baby. Rest well!

Signed Just a Childless Mother

May 11, 2010

it is 2010 and your baby is gone but never for gotten we have a new web site which is called gon but never forgotton-free forever and we r doing vigials for those who want to keep the memories alive every year on the date of birth we just want to send best wishes to you and your family to let you know that your inour hearts

May 5, 2010

Rest In Peace Faheem
I Kno Ur Going To Be Missed

aaliyah sharpe

April 29, 2008

To Mrs.Arnold and Family,

It's difficult to believe it's been 4 yrs since we all lost our
beloved Faheem. Just wanted you to know you are still in my heart
and my prayers. Peace & Love

Tina Lockwood

February 28, 2008

REST IN PEACE FAHEEM
YOU ARE GONE BUT WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN

Fatimah Smith

September 25, 2006

Joyce Culbreth

June 5, 2006

God Bless you & your family

Mary Isley

June 5, 2006

To Faheem:

I was prompted to attend your funeral and the subsequent march

thereafter, by your angelical face and accolades made by your Teacher. Tho' I never had the privilege to meet you or your

strong family, I felt that I knew you. Your Mother continued to show dignity when she appeared in the courtroom. God bless you Mrs. Arnold. I will continue to pray for you and your family.

Tina Lockwood

June 1, 2006

I've been following the story of this beautiful child since the beginning, and I hope that his family can find some peace in the small amount of justice being issued. His memory has reached me and touched me - and I can begin to feel good about knowing that where he is now, nothing bad can get to him, and no one can ever hurt him. To his family, and especially his mother, you remain in my thoughts. To this sweet baby, peace be with you, now and always.

Lisa Summers

April 29, 2006

TO FAHEEM:



REST IN PEACE LITTLE ANGLE

Debbie Dawson

December 8, 2005

From the bottom of my heart I would like to send my condolences. It was such a tragic thing that happened, that could have been prevented. I hope all has been well, and keep your head up, because he is in a place where he can recieve everlasting happiness. GodBless you.

Kenneth Manigault

December 6, 2005

Faheem's memory will live on inside the minds of everyone in the city. He will be missed.

Chris Hudgins

April 8, 2005

ALL THESE MONTHS LATER AND THE PASSING OF YOUR CHILD IS STILL WITH ME, AND I WILL CONTINUE TO KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS

STACEY SIGLER

December 27, 2004

God Bless The Entire Family

Leia Connors

December 26, 2004

To: Faheem Thomas-Childs Family:

Faheem is still in our Prayers along with the other families

suffering with the lost of a child.

BEFORE AND AFTER FAHEEM!!!!!!

MS. DEBBIE DAWSON & FAMILY

Debbie Dawson

October 28, 2004

Dear Thomas-Child Family & Frinds:



Just wanted you to know that though the time is passing on, Prayers are continually being Prayed for you alls strength and peace of understanding. We have not forgot your love one and we never will.



In Jesus name,

Please be encouraged!

(He never said our road would be easy but, He promised to walk with us)

Love you but God loves you more.



Mary McIntyre and the Mount moriah Missionary Baptish Church, Sacramento, CA

Mary McIntyre

October 27, 2004

MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND KEEP THEM SAFE WHILE YOU ARE ASLEEP FOR A LITTLE WHILE.

mrs. raymond allen

April 7, 2004

MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY BECAUSE YOU ARE NOW WITH HIM ANGEL.....

CHERITA THOMAS

April 7, 2004

God Bless you and your family know that he is an angel in a much better place.

schrese knight

April 6, 2004

TO THE FAMILY OF FAHEEM CHILDS

I CONTINUE TO THINK OF FAHEEM AND PRAY FOR YOUR STRENGTH GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN.



DAWSON FAMILY

DEBBIE DAWSON

April 5, 2004

I pray for your son every day. Please take comfort in knowing he is being held in the loving arms of the Lord.

Linda Dolphin

March 25, 2004

Dear family and friends of Faheem Thomas-Childs,

Weeks after the tragic death of this innocent child, my heart still breaks at the thought of his passing. His death touches us all. Please know you remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Barbara Dundon

March 18, 2004

Gone but NEVER EVER forgotten!

Mary McIntyre

March 5, 2004

To the family,



My heart was deeply sadden to hear about the passing of Faheem. It is my prayer that the Lord will comfort and strengthen you during this time in your life. I know deep down inside we wonder why? Know this, God is in total control of our lives. It is in times like these where we learn to "Accept what God allows". Keep in Mind...Matthew 19:14 - But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Always in my prayers.

Minister Kazmir Brandon

February 27, 2004

To Faheem's Family

My thoughts and prayers go out to you. May your memories help you through this difficult time. May it help to know how many people are praying for your son. God Bless you all.

Barbara Zimmerman

February 27, 2004

to the family of Faheem Thomas-Childs,

Sorry for the lost of your lovely child.I wish i could be with you to comfort you and your family.

Crystal F

February 26, 2004

To the Family of Faheem,



My deepest sympathy to you. May you somehow find the strength to cope during this difficult time.

Kristen Lepkowski

February 25, 2004

May god bless you all in your time of need and sadness. Just know our prayers are with you and how Faheem is now in the hearts of people everywhere.

The Kearney Family

Danielle Kearney

February 25, 2004

To Mrs. Patricia and Family,

Let not your heart be troubled ye believe in God and also in me.

Remember if you need support my family is here.

Janae Jones

February 25, 2004

May god be with you and your family.

Jamar Pleasant

February 24, 2004

I was shocked by the news of the tragic incident, and sadden by the news of Faheem's "graduation". Please accept the heart-felt wishes of strength from my family to yours.



Respectfully,

Corey Hudnell

Chester, Pa., (Del. Co.)

Corey Hudnell

February 24, 2004

No words could ever be said that would fill your heart, but stay strong and know that the Lord is watching over you. You are in my prayers. God Bless.

Kacie Weir

February 24, 2004

Words can't express how sad I feel. I saw a picture of Faheem's mother and cannot imagine what she must be going through. God will give you strength to carry on and bless you and your loved ones.

Ron Scott

February 24, 2004

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I ask God to surround you with loving and kind people who will be there with you during your your time of need. Not just now while your pain is fresh but in the weeks and months to come.

Y S

February 24, 2004

I am saddened by your great lost and my prayers are with all of you. Words cannot express how sorry I am at your lost but our Great God will strengthen and comfort you at this time. Just try and remember the wonderful times that you shared with this lovely little warrior and hopefully you will find comfort in that. No one can take away your memories. Peace and love to you all. From Wijo

Wilhelmina Wilkins-Franquel

February 24, 2004

To the Family of Faheem, May God give you strength and courage to face the days ahead. Remember he is safe now with his Father. Faheem is smiling on you and your family. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Bonnie

February 24, 2004

To the Family of Faheem Thomas-Child:



Words are of little comfort in losing an angel such as Faheem. My family extend heartfelt sympathy for the loss of little Faheem. Keep your faith in the Lord and may his grace and mercy comfort you and give you peace in your time of sorrow.

Brenda Wilson

February 24, 2004

It's better to have had love and lost then to not have ever had love at all. May God continue to bless and strenghten you and you family in this time of bereavement. Love your sister in christ.

lora McIntyre

February 23, 2004

To the Thomas-Child Family:

The WORLD is very saddened at the home going of your little Angel. May God's Grace and Mercy be upon your family and community? Please be encouraged in knowing that thousands of Prayers are continuous going up to Heaven on you alls behalf. I read in one of the entries where a man said he doesn’t Pray much but when he does he will be praying for your family. (when praise go up, blessings come down)

When I saw this young mans face in the paper no one had to tell me how good of a person he was, how he was a peace maker, it was written all over him. Love you but God loves you more!



Mary McIntyre and the Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church Family.

Mary McIntyre

February 23, 2004

To The Family:

I pray your strength in the Lord to get through this time of loss.May you remember that God has not forsaken you,nor has He left your family in this GREAT hour of need.As you go through each day,ask God for strength to endure.My prayer for your family,is STRENGTH.Know that your child is with God.to be absent in body,is to be present with the Lord.We shall pray for your family,and KNOW that God Shall provide.In the name of Jesus,we Love you!!!Be Blessed,and trust in the Lord...

Theressa Damon

February 22, 2004

It is so sad that this happen to a bright young man who had so much to offer to the world in the future. You have my deepest sympathy and you are in my prayers.

Sarah Ancrum

February 21, 2004

To the Childs Family I am so sorry for the loss of your child . I cannot say i know how you feel because i don`t but i do know God & if you will put your trust in him he will make the days ahead of you brighter. I will keep your family in prayer . God Bless all of you.

Lawrence Byrd

February 20, 2004

I don't know your family, you don't know mine. but how my heart aches for you and yours. May good come from this tragedy, may others stand up for what is right, that no other child die as they do the very thing they are entitled, that is receive a education and live without fear. I'm left without words like so many others trying to offer comfort to you where there is none to be had,only time and God can help. you're in our prayers.

C L

February 20, 2004

To the Faheem Family,



I have a 10year old little girl and I know it must be hard for you. Please know that GOD is with you and Faheem. Faheem is with our him now and that hurts but God will give you the strength to make it thought this. I know you will miss him but you must know that he will not miss you for he is with you everyday. It's his presence that YOU will miss and if you keep him close to your heart you will feel such a release. I lost my brother when he was young, we were very close and I can feel when he is around me. It's really amazing. he comes to me in my dreams, in Heaven...I feel so good when I hear from him and you will too. It's nothing like talking to them while they are in "Heaven", he's always in white with a glowing light behind him. Well I've talked your head off but I hope you get to read this, it will enlighten your heavy spirit. God Bless you all.. You and your family is in me and my families prayers.

A. DeRamus

February 20, 2004

My deepest sympathy to all of Faheem's family. May God hold you close as He now holds your beloved child. May God be with you as you mourn and as you celebrate Faheem's life.

Margaret Fatula

February 20, 2004

To the parents of little Faheem..

Words cannot express the sadness inside my heart hearing of the loss of your Son.In some way with the power of God's love, He will bring you and your family thru this very difficult time in your lives. We do not know you personally, but we are blessed to be able to express our condolences to you and your family.



God Bless you..



Sylve16.....

Sylvia Banfield

February 19, 2004

Accept my condolences and

prayers to your family from mine.

May his soul rest in peace.

Angela Temple

February 19, 2004

TO MRS. PATRICIA THOMAS-CHILDS AND FAMILY:

I CANNOT EXPRESS HOW SORRY I AM TO HEAR ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR CHILD. I CAN NOT SAY THAT I UNDERSTAND BECAUSE I DON'T. I CAN'T SAY THAT I KNOW HOW YOU FEEL BECAUSE I DON'T. EVERYTIME I SEE FAHEEMS FACE SMILING ON MY TELEVISION SCREEN, OR ON THE FRONT OF MY NEWSPAPER, TEARS RUN DOWN MY FACE. I MYSELF AM A MOTHER AND I HAVE TO SAY MRS. CHILDS YOU ARE MY ROCK RIGHT NOW BECAUSE I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I WOULD DO IF THIS HAPPENED TO ME. TO SAY THAT GOD NOW HAS A ANGEL IN HEAVEN WITH HIM WOULD BE AN UNDERSTATEMENT.
FAHEEM IS STILL WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. HE IS IN NO MORE PAIN AND HE SUFFERS NO MORE. GOD MAKES NO MISTAKES. HE GIVES BLESSINGS AND FAHEEM WAS INDEED A BLESSING TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. IF ONLY FOR THE SHORT TIME THAT HE SHARED WITH YOU, HE IS NOW SMILING DOWN ON US ALL FROM A BETTER PLACE AFTER HEARING THE WORDS FROM OUR MAKER OF "A JOB WELL DONE." MY PRAYERS ARE TRULY WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY NOW.

NACHELLE MARTINEZ

February 19, 2004

May you find comfort in your faith, family, close friends during this painful time. It is unfair that Faheem had to leave you so soon, but God is rejoicing that one of his own has come home. You are in my prayers.

Donna Millan

February 19, 2004

My daughter works with the City Year program and is helping with a second grade class at Peirce Elementary. This tragedy has touched our family and Faheem will not be forgotten. Our prayers go out to Faheem's family and his school family. May you all continue to receive comfort from God's blessings. Phil and Katherine Pugh

Katherine Pugh

February 19, 2004

My condolences go out to Faheem Thomas-Childs and his entire family. I am sorry to hear about your loss.

Keyon Smith

February 19, 2004

My heart and my prayers are with all of you. God keep you.

~~~~~~~~~

"Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I, and you are you, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without an effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute and unbroken continuity. What is death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well."



Henry Scott Holland

Lianne S.

February 19, 2004

I am the mother of two boys and a stepson, between the ages of 1 and 9. I cannot imagine the pain that you are feeling right now and I pray that God will take you all in his arms and guide you through this troubled time. As a mother, I cry everytime I see the picture of your child on the TV knowing that it could of been mines. I pray for you and your family and may God Bless You!!

Jessica Diaz

February 19, 2004

It was 12 years ago when I experienced the pain that you must now endure, the loss of a child, and I too, now share your pain.

God, in his infinite wisdom blessed me with the opportunity to find comfort in a poem I recently found, which I now feel compelled to share with you all during this difficult time:

GOD'S LOAN

"I'll lend to you for a little time,

A child of mine, "He said",

"For you to love the while he lives

And mourn for when he's dead.



"It may be six or seven years

Or twenty- two or three

But will you till I call him back,

Take care of him for me?



"He'll bring his charms to gladden you

And should his stay be brief,

You'll have these precious memories

As solace for your grief.



I cannot promise he will stay

Since all from earth return

But there are lessons taught down there

I want this child to learn.



"I've looked this whole world over

In my search for teachers true

And in the crowds that throng life's land

I have selected you.



"Now will you give him all your love

Not think the labor vain,

Nor hate me when I come to call

To take him back again?"



It seems to me I heard them say,

"Dear Lord, Thy will be done.

For all the joys thy child shall bring.

The risk of grief we'll run.



"We'll shelter him with tenderness,

We'll love him while we may,

And for the happiness we've known

Forever grateful stay.



"And should the angels call for him

Much sooner than we've planned,

We'll brave the bitter grief that comes,

And try to understand."

(Author Unknown)



May you all find peace and comfort within the Grace of God.

Sheba King-Dunson

February 19, 2004

To the family of Faheem Thomas-Childs, my heart goes out to you,and may God bless you and your family during this difficult time. Faheem is one of God's little angels.

Ms. Natasha Godwin

February 18, 2004

I am reminded that somehow tragedy brings strength. I grieve for your loss. I cannot comprehend your sorrow. This beautiful little boy is now with God. Believe that. God will make a way, when you can't find your way. He works in ways we cannot see - he will make a way for all of you. He makes no mistakes. Our family is praying for you through a time of seeming senseless loss.

Irene Shead

February 18, 2004

May God Bless you and your family. My prayers will continue to be with you and your family. Just know that God has something in stored for your family. Keep the faith!

Krishell Coleman

February 18, 2004

THOMAS-CHILDS FAMILY I COULD WRITE PROBALY THE SAME THING THAT EVERYONE ELSE HAS BUT I WANT TO SPEAK TO THE SIBLINGS OF FAHEEM. YOU HAVE LOST A BROTHER BUT HIS DEATH WILL TEACH YOU A HIDDEN LESSON. STRENGHTH! YOU WILL BECOME CLOSER TO EACH OTHER, YOU WILL BECOME PROTECTIVE OF EACH OTHER AND YOU WILL DESIRE TO DO ALL THAT YOU CAN TO NEVER WALK INTO ANOTHER LIFE'S SITUATION AS THIS. REMEMBER THAT IF YOU TAKE YOUR ANGER AND APPLY INTO THE POSITIVE THEN YOUR BROTHER FAHEEM'S DEATH WILL NOT BE IN VAIN. BE LEADERS IN THE COMMUNITY SO THAT HIS NAME WILL LIVE ON. DO NOT BE AFRAID TO BE ANGRY OR BE AFRAID TO EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS. EMBRACE THOSE AT THIS TIME WHO ARE REACHING OUT TO EMBRACE YOU.

REMEMBER ONE THING GOD DOES NOT MAKE MISTAKES

Temia Brown

February 18, 2004

I'M VERY DEEPLY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.I HAVE A SIX YEAR-OLD SON THAT I LOVE DEARLY.I CAN'T EVEN IMAGINE WHAT YOUR GOING THROUGH BUT GOD WILL GIVE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY STRENGTH IN THESE TIMES.YOUR IN MY PRAYERS AND GOD BLESS YOU.

ERIC CLEMENTS

February 18, 2004

To the family and friends of Faheem Thomas-Childs, you are all in my prayers and thoughts. I live miles away and was touched by this story and want you all to know that as a community and nation we stand behind you in your time of grief.

Shaunda

February 18, 2004

I lost someone very close to me and left to care for my 2 small boys alone. It's not time to mourn over the lost. Just celabrate Faheems's life.

Brianna Scott

February 18, 2004

My heart felt prayers go out to the family and friends of Faheem Thomas-Childs. I have a 5 year old daughter and 3 boys (all grown) myself and I cannot imagine the pain that this has caused. May God Bless you all and keep you in his "Everloving" arms.

Renee Moton

February 18, 2004

To the Thomas-Childs family:



Surely there is little that can comfort you at this time, but please know that Faheem's life will surely make a difference in this world. May you and your surrounding community allow your grief to become the catalyst for change. In this way, Faheem's spirit will always remain...



May you find strength and support in this tragic time. My prayers are with you.

Kara Badyna

February 18, 2004

god is good and he knows whats best i feel like he is a part of me .my prayers goes out to the family god bless.noone deserves to die .

joanne ross

February 18, 2004

to the family of faheem thomas -childs may god be with at your time of loss and saddness he is now one of the angel's of the world

e goodwin

February 18, 2004

I think of this young man often throughout the day. I am so sorry for your loss and I pray for you.

Tom Onufrak

February 18, 2004

I would like to send my deepest condolences to the family of Faheem Thomas-Childs. My prayers and thoughts are with you during your time of loss.

Nakeshia D.

February 18, 2004

God Bless and Keep you now and always. Our prayers are with you and your family. The Johnson Family

Cynthia Johnson

February 18, 2004

To the Thomas-Childs Family...



My thoughts/prayers among thousands are with you in such a time as this... may you find comfort in the treasured memories that you must now rely on of such a "beautiful child"... "Family" was created by God... love, stay close, and comfort each other... allow each other to grieve in his or her own way... may the Love and Peace that only God can give sustain you throughout the rest of your lives. Sincerely, Saundra.

Saundra McCray

February 18, 2004

My prayers and thoughts are with the family, the community at large and the families of all those who have lost loved ones to violence. This senseless action affects the entire community and we must come together as one.

LuzSelenia Salas

February 18, 2004

My prayers have been and will continue to be with your family. May Gold Bless you and your family!

Karen

February 18, 2004

I just wanted to send my condolence in the lost of your angel Faheem.

Jessica C.

February 18, 2004

To the Thomas-Childs Family:



My heart is grieving also. I have a beautiful son and I just cannot imagine the grief you are currently experiencing. Faheem will truly be missed. He had so much potential and promise. Life seems unfair sometimes and this is one of the hardest tragedies to deal with myself as an adult.



I know that the Lord is good and He will bring you through this. There are so many of us grieving and praying for you and your family during this time of mourning. God bless.

TeeTee Johnson

February 18, 2004

To the family of Faheem Thomas-Childs may God continue to bless you and your family during your time of need. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and I pray that you all can seek comfort in knowing that Faheem is in a better place. Keep the faith and God Bless You.

Tanya Harris

February 18, 2004

To The Family And Friends Of Faheem,

As a mother of two, i cannot imagine the intolerable pain that you must be feeling.May God bless you and keep you in the palm of his hand in this tragic time. Faheem may be gone in body, but as long as you have him in your hearts and minds, he will never be gone. He is now your angel.

servasia mccray

February 18, 2004

Sorry for your loss. May the peace of God be with you and your family. Know that your son is now resing safe in the precious arms of Jesus. God Bless you all.

Dee Tyler

February 18, 2004

To the Thomas-Childs Family: "Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot cure!" May you take comfort in knowing that many, many people share in your loss. Words cannot express how we really feel at a time like this. My prayers and thoughts go to your family today and everyday. God bless you and keep you.

Olympia Simmons

February 18, 2004

To the Family & Friends, Schoolmates of Faheem Thomas-Childs,



When I first heard the story my heart sank, and when I heard of his passing my heart broke and I cried. I cried for the mother, the family, school and the community and our people.

As a believer in Christ, I know joy cometh in the morning!

So I'm praying for healing in your family and the entire community.

GOD Bless you and your family.

Pat Scott

February 18, 2004

I will continue to keep your entire family in Prayer. Remember, God Loves You! There are people who really care!

Kathryn Smith

February 18, 2004

We are living in differcult times, may you draw strength from knowing that you Son is in haven under the

proection of Our Havenly Father. May God Bless your Family at this time of sorrow.

Christine H

February 18, 2004

To the Family:



You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this terribly devastating time. No one deserves this kind of pain. May God Bless with and be with you all through your struggles. I am sure it is good to know that your community cares so much and will be helping you through this. I know it is hard to see now, but there ALWAYS seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel.



God Bless and Best Wishes.



Sincerely,



Kelly

Kelly Riley

February 18, 2004

When death comes without warning, the shock and disbelief can be overwhelming. It is never in the natural order of things for a child to die before his or her parents, and this can be especially intense when the death is sudden and/or violent. Life for the parents and siblings is changed forever, often in an instant, and it takes time for the reality of what has happened to sink in.



Complete recovery is a myth.



While you are dealing and coping with your situation, please seek help for everyone in your family, professional help, someone to talk to who is non-judgmental.



The bond with the child, brother, or sister will never be broken, because the love that has been shared will always remain.



I know your pain, I to have lost a young loved-one to the violence of the streets of Philadelphia.

Janice Baker

February 18, 2004

To The Childs Family,



I and my entire family sends our deepest regret.



Saying I'm so sorry just isn't enough. I wish that there was something I could say or even do to comfort you and your family in this time of sorrow. You and your family are in my prayers. God bless you.

Angela Scott

February 18, 2004

There is very little at this time that one can say or do. But may it help to know that the entire city of Philadelphia and beyond are praying for all of you to come through this and to let you know that God knows how you feel. Reach out and grab hold to his hand, for he alone can give you comfort and peace and will sustain you. God bless you, and please accept my sincere sympathy.

Carolyn Williams

February 18, 2004

My prays are to the Thomas-Childs family, trust in God, he will get you through this very dark time in your lives, we have to and must believe God makes no mistakes

Madeline

February 18, 2004

To Faheem a child of mine, a child of God, and a child to his parent's you will be missed dearly. I look at my own son everyday and tell him "I love you" so he will always and forever know. So to all of Faheem's family and friends I am deeply sorry for your lost but know he is in a better place! God Bless

Ronelle House

February 18, 2004

No words can describe the pain I am sure your family has experienced with the tragic loss of Faheem. I am not sure why I felt drawn to express my sympathy to a family I never met, but our prayers are with you. May Faheem's sweet spirit, that we have read about, continue on in all of your lives. May God bless your family and help in your healing.

Rosemary Touhill

February 18, 2004

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