Memphis Mourns the Tragic Loss of 18-Year-Old Myah Philmore, A Bright Light Gone Too Soon
Memphis, Tennessee is mourning the profound and untimely loss of Myah Philmore, who tragically passed away on June 28, 2025, at just 18 years old. A vibrant and beloved daughter, cherished friend, and promising young woman with a radiant personality, Myah’s sudden passing has left an indescribable void in the lives of those who knew and loved her.
Born and raised in Memphis, Myah was known for her infectious smile, compassionate heart, and unwavering positivity. Whether she was uplifting friends, helping her neighbors, or participating in youth programs at her church, Myah brought light into every room she entered. She was a recent graduate of Central High School, where she was admired by her peers and teachers alike for her strong work ethic, kindness, and joyful spirit.
“Myah was the kind of person who made you feel seen and loved,” said her high school counselor, Mrs. Tara Benson. “She always went out of her way to help others. Her laughter, her energy—it was contagious. The halls of Central won’t be the same without her.”
At Central, Myah was actively involved in numerous student organizations, including the Black Student Union, the Girls Empowerment Group, and the school’s volunteer leadership program. She had plans to attend the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in the fall, where she was excited to study nursing, driven by a passion for helping people and a dream of one day working in pediatric care.
“Myah had a gift for nurturing others,” said her mother, Angela Philmore, holding back tears during a community vigil held in her memory. “She was gentle but strong, thoughtful but bold. She was my baby girl, and she had so much life ahead of her.”
The circumstances surrounding Myah’s passing have not been publicly disclosed out of respect for the family’s privacy, but the community’s grief is palpable. In the days since her death, hundreds have gathered for vigils, shared tributes across social media, and offered heartfelt condolences to her family.
“Myah was more than a friend—she was like a sister,” said Jalaya Morgan, her childhood best friend. “She encouraged me to chase my dreams. She believed in people, even when they didn’t believe in themselves.”
A candlelight vigil held on June 29th at Overton Park drew a large crowd of students, community members, and faith leaders. Balloons were released into the sky as friends shared memories of Myah’s warmth, generosity, and the impact she made in just 18 short years. Her favorite gospel song, “Encourage Yourself” by Donald Lawrence, played softly as attendees embraced one another and wept.
In honor of her memory, the Myah Philmore Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to support young women from Memphis pursuing careers in healthcare and community service. The fund has already received overwhelming support from local businesses, educators, and alumni, eager to carry forward Myah’s legacy of compassion and excellence.
“Myah may no longer be with us in body, but her spirit will live on through the lives she touched,” said Pastor Jerome Harris of New Hope Baptist Church, where Myah had been a faithful member and youth choir participant. “She had the soul of a servant and the heart of a leader.”
A public viewing and funeral service are scheduled for Saturday, July 5, at New Hope Baptist Church. Friends, family, and members of the public are invited to attend and celebrate the life of a young woman whose presence was a gift to all who knew her.
In the face of unimaginable loss, the Philmore family and the Memphis community are leaning on faith, love, and one another to carry forward. As tributes continue to pour in, one message stands above all: Myah Philmore’s light was taken far too soon—but it will never be forgotten.