The Memphis community is mourning the loss of Pastor Ricky Floyd, who was fatally shot outside a downtown bar early morning yesterday. Reverend Doctor Bill Adkins of Greater Imani Church, a long-time friend of Pastor Floyd, expressed his sorrow to WREG, saying, "Certainly, it was more than just a shock. I was devastated by the news. I considered him a son in the ministry, a person that’s been close to me for over 30 years and, me, my wife, my family and my church family, and we all got hurt because he was so close to all of us and especially think about his wife, Sheila, his children. It’s just devastating to us to have lost him like this."
According to the Commercial Appeal, the Memphis Police Department responded to the shooting at 855 Kentucky St. Samantha Marion was arrested and charged with voluntary manslaughter in connection to Floyd's death. Authorities say the incident started with a dispute inside the bar, which escalated when Floyd left, returned, and exhibited aggressive behavior before leaving the scene.
Following Floyd's death, local entrepreneur Terrence "TB" Boyce organized an open gym event for local youth to honor Floyd’s mentorship and provide a safe space for basketball and discussions on non-violence. In an interview with Local Memphis, TB said, "I started on Christian hip hop, and I always wanted to perform at his church, and he finally gave me the opportunity. And, you know, I was happy and excited, and that's where it started from: our relationship, then opening up a business. He had the whole Frayser business, he loved entrepreneurs, and he poured into me with that as well."
Community figures, including County Commissioner Charlie Caswell, reflected on Floyd's impact. Caswell told WREG, "It was Pastor Ricky Floyd, 23 years ago, that saw something in me when he became my pastor, that most people would’ve given up on me for." Members of the church, like Carolyn Settles, mourn the loss of a pastor dedicated to faith and love.
Greater Imani Church held a live-stream Bible study to honor Floyd's memory, and the Fire Proof Open Gym event gave children and teens a chance to remember and carry on his mission.
