Stillman College is enveloped in profound grief following the tragic deaths of current student Sieas Elliot and alumni Destiny Gardner and Varick Lawrence in a fatal car accident in the Atlanta metropolitan area on the evening of May 23, 2025. This heartbreaking incident has sent shockwaves through the college community and beyond, as friends, family, and faculty mourn the loss of three bright and promising individuals whose lives were cut short far too soon.
Dr. Yolanda W. Page, president of Stillman College, shared her sorrow, expressing, “The spirit of each of these proud Stillmanites will live on with all who were greeted by their warm smiles and welcoming personalities. Our entire Stillman College community mourns this heartbreaking loss.” Her words echoed the sentiments of countless others who remember the trio for their warmth, dedication, and vibrant contributions to campus life.
Sieas Elliot, a native of Stockbridge, Georgia, had recently concluded a standout baseball career at Stillman College. His passion for the sport and his commitment to his peers were evident throughout his time on campus. Planning to return for the 2025-2026 academic year as a student assistant coach, Sieas was eager to continue shaping the lives of younger athletes. As a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., his leadership extended beyond the field, contributing to the fraternity’s legacy and campus spirit.
Destiny Gardner, a 2022 graduate from Montgomery, Alabama, was a figure of grace and leadership, widely admired on and off campus. Serving as the 74th Miss Stillman, she was a shining ambassador for the college, embodying the values of excellence and service. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Destiny’s dedication to community upliftment was clear. Professionally, she served as a juvenile officer, where her compassion and commitment to youth development were highly respected. Destiny shared a young son with Varick Lawrence, creating a family bond that magnified the tragedy of their joint passing.
Varick Lawrence, a native of Lithonia, Georgia, had a remarkable connection to Stillman College through his years as a baseball player from 2021 to 2023. Beyond his athletic talents, Varick’s heart lay in coaching, a role he pursued passionately in the Atlanta area. Like Sieas, Varick was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., contributing to a brotherhood that valued integrity, service, and leadership. His impact on young athletes and community members continues to be remembered fondly.
The athletic community at Stillman has been especially impacted by this loss. Terrance Whittle, the college’s Athletics Director, extended heartfelt condolences, stating, “Their legacy will live on at Stillman through the relationships they formed while here.” His words highlighted the enduring bonds and memories forged by the three young men and woman during their time at the college.
Expressions of grief and solidarity have poured in from across the Stillman network. Cassius Lanier, a Stillman alumna and Tuscaloosa City Council District 7 representative, took to social media to honor the memory of her fellow Stillmanites, posting, “Prayers up for my Stillman College family and families of our Stillmanites who lost their lives.” Such tributes underscore the widespread mourning felt within the broader community.
The accident that claimed the lives of Sieas, Destiny, and Varick is still under investigation by local authorities in the Atlanta area. As details unfold, the college and families remain united in their grief and resolve to honor their legacies. The Stillman College community extends its deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and loved ones affected by this devastating loss.
The passing of these three remarkable individuals is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact one person can have on many. Sieas, Destiny, and Varick each embodied the spirit of Stillman College—dedication, leadership, and community service. Though their lives were tragically shortened, their influence and memory will inspire generations of Stillmanites to come.
Plans for memorial services and tributes are being arranged, providing opportunities for the community to come together to celebrate their lives, share memories, and support one another through this difficult time. As the college and its extended family grieve, there is a collective commitment to preserve the legacies of Sieas Elliot, Destiny Gardner, and Varick Lawrence through continued acts of service, leadership, and love.
In this time of mourning, Stillman College stands as a united community, honoring its fallen members and supporting those left behind. Their spirit, dedication, and love for their college and community will forever be remembered. Rest in peace, Sieas, Destiny, and Varick—you will always be a part of Stillman’s heart and soul.
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The post Stillman College Mourns Tragic Loss of Student Sieas Elliot and Alumni Destiny Gardner & Varick Lawrence in Atlanta Car Accident first appeared on Voxtrend News.
