Support Skylar & Daisy after loss of husband, father Ferny

Dear Friends, family, and community,

Our children have grown up with Skylar, now a third-year student at Valdosta State, through Gary Taylor Dance and Imagine Youth Theater. Skylar's mother (Daisy's grandmother), Kimberly Fielder-Jones, has taught theater to many in our area as teacher at North Moore High School and director at Imagine Youth Theater. We are heartbroken, and concerned for her and her toddler Daisy's future without husband and daddy Ferny. Please consider a donation to help Skylar manage Ferny's final expenses (no life insurance), daily living and school expenses, and any childcare needs. Funds will allow Skylar to worry a bit less about day to day finances while she copes with loss, navigates their path forward, and (maybe, hopefully?) finds a way to complete her degree and establish a working life that includes her talent and love for dance.

Skylar, Ferny, and daughter Daisy (who turned 1 in March) spent Easter weekend with family in North Carolina. Afterwards, Ferny left Daisy for a planned visit with her grandparents in NC and headed back to the couple's home in Valdosta, GA, to work, while Skylar flew to NYC for a dance audition (with the Rockettes). Tragically, Ferny was killed in a single car accident after work on Tuesday evening. Skylar learned the devastating news and left NYC just prior to her audition.

Ferny & Skylar have been living, working, and raising Daisy in Valdosta, GA while both attended school at Valdosta State University. Skylar is a third-year BFA scholarship student in VSU's dance program. Ferny had ambitions of studying medicine. Due to the time demands of Skylar's BFA program, he'd served as the family's primary source of income and caregiver for Daisy. He was selfless, nurturing, smart, and enthusiastically supportive of both his wife and daughter. Moving forward will be emotionally and financially challenging for Skylar and Daisy without Ferny's dedication and companionship. An unfortunate coincidence, Skylar's father likewise died in a tragic accident before she was born. This family can use some reassurance, support, and positive energy.

Skylar and her family are so grateful for your love & support and ask for some privacy with limited texts or calls at this time.

With thanks,

Jules Latham & Katie Mays