Greensboro, N.C. – A community is in mourning after the tragic loss of 18-year-old Jaden Buie, a former football player at Dudley High School. His mother, Rickeda Stephens, shared heartfelt memories of her son, describing him as a young man with a big heart who was always there for his family, especially the women in his life.
Reflecting on his character, she said, “He didn’t play about the women in his family, and he was just really humble. He would do anything for anybody.” Jaden not only left an impact on those who knew him best but was also the family comedian, bringing joy and laughter during gatherings, as noted by his aunt, Tiesha Barnwell, and grandfather, Gerald Barnwell.
On the fateful morning of January 10, Jaden had texted his mother that he was driving home. Concern rose for Rickeda when she noticed his car had been stationary on the tracking app, Life360, at 4:58 a.m. After confirming with her husband, Gary, that he had not encountered Jaden on his way to work, Rickeda rushed to find her son.
As she walked three blocks to his last known location on Holts Chapel Road, she discovered first responders attending to a fiery car crash. The news she received from the officers changed everything. “They said there was one person in the car, and they didn’t make it,” she recalled, heartbroken. “I pretty much lost it.”
Greensboro police confirmed that excessive speed was a factor in the accident. “He just felt like he was Superman and had to go to people’s rescue,” Rickeda expressed, encapsulating the spirit of her beloved son.
Funeral arrangements for Jaden are still being organized, and a GoFundMe page has been established to assist the family during this difficult time.
