Gathering in Warnimont Park, Milwaukee, the family and friends of the late Sade Robinson paid tribute to her memory with the unveiling of a bench and a memorial intended to offer comfort and serve as a testament to her enduring spirit. The 19-year-old college student's life was brutally cut short in April of the previous year after a first date with her killer, Maxwell Anderson. Robinson's dismembered remains were found scattered across multiple locations, including the park, South Milwaukee, Waukegan, Illinois, and near 31st and Galena in Milwaukee. As detailed by FOX6 News, the bench brings light to a place of former darkness, allowing loved ones to honor Robinson and reflect on her life.
During the emotionally charged ribbon-cutting ceremony, reported by WISN, Robinson's mother, Sheena Scarbrough, bravely spoke of the site's transformation. The memorial situated above the cliff where Robinson's severed leg was initially discovered, symbolizes both strength and healing. "This is the location where my baby was dismembered," Scarbrough said, confronting the space that once was marred by tragedy. Now standing there, it honors her daughter and the family's commitment to her enduring spirit.
The family's initiative raised nearly $40,000 for the memorial, underscoring their dedication to preserve Robinson's legacy in concrete form. As The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel quoted Scarbrough, "I will never understand it. I don't know why we were chosen to walk this path, but we have to continue." The bench is not only a place to rest but is marked by a plaque with Robinson's image and the words, "Still Sade rises spiritually saving lives," which speaks to her impact and her family's hopes for community healing.
Family members highlighted their vision for Robinson's story to be one of triumph over her tragic end. "We don't want her to remain a victim, but a victor, and so we need the support of everyone in the community," a family member stated, per WISN's coverage of the event.
