Powhatan County has lost a loving human being and talented friend to violence.

Tahliek Taliaferro, left, was killed Tuesday, June 24, shot to death on Dorset Rd.

For now though, the people who knew and loved Taliaferro would prefer to focus on the young man they lost and the memories that they will carry with them.

“He was a wonderful, high spirited teenager,” said Ruth Taliaferro, the victim’s aunt. “He would always go to his younger cousin’s basketball games and call her later on with pointers.”

“She [Taliaferro’s cousin] is going to PHS next year and I was just so happy that Tahliek would be there to show her the ropes.”

For all of the joy that Taliaferro brought to the world around him, the game of football returned the favor. He was an All-State linebacker as a junior and had already been selected Southside District First Team and First Team All-Region.

“Tahliek was an outstanding player with tons of potential,” said Powhatan head football coach Jimmy Woodson.

“He just really enjoyed playing the game of football. It is a rough game and that was good for him, he was very aggressive…but Tahliek also had this wonderful smile and sense of humor.”

“He was a really good guy,” said Cory Evans. “He never hurt anybody.”

The Tuesday night shooting leaves anger and confusion in its wake. Stephanie Reynolds, 19, Ethan Parrish, 24, and Joey Parrish, 17, are in custody, suspected of committing the murder. A juvenile was also struck when the suspects allegedly opened fire with an assault rifle.

Travis Garris was Taliaferro’s close friend. In a weary voice, the day after the shooting, he reflected on the situation. 

“I knew who they [the suspects] were, but I didn’t like them, you know? I mean I hate them.”

But Taliaferro’s memory prevails and overshadows the anger his friends and family feel.

“He was so loved by everybody — his teachers, coaches and the students — they all loved him so much,” said Ruth Taliaferro. “This is just so hard on the young people.”

Thousands attended the memorial service for Taliaferro on Monday in the Powhatan High School auditorium.

“God is doing something here in the County of Powhatan,” said Rev. Dr. Gregory Beechaum during the eulogy. “Tahliek has done more in death than many do while living.”

“He brought us together and showed us what love is really about.”

Related Articles:

Opinion: In Remembrance

Opinion: Trying to find hope after teen’s senseless death

Local News: Three in custody, questions remain

InRich.com: Powhatan suspects held without bond

Photo Gallery: View Tahliek Taliaferro photo gallery