The Colleton County community is in deep mourning following a devastating head-on collision that claimed the lives of three beloved family members — Candace Bright, Jordan Brown, and Jermane “Bird” Holmes Jr. The fatal crash occurred earlier this week, leaving friends, relatives, and neighbors heartbroken as they struggle to comprehend the sudden loss of three vibrant souls.
According to family tributes shared online, the tragedy has left a lasting mark on everyone who knew the victims. Social media has been filled with messages of grief, remembrance, and disbelief as loved ones recall the joy, laughter, and love that Candace, Jordan, and Bird brought into their lives.
A Devoted Mother and Achiever: Remembering Candace Bright
Candace Bright’s death has left a painful void in the hearts of her family and community. Candace had just celebrated her birthday on Saturday — a moment of happiness that would be her last. Known for her strength, compassion, and unwavering determination, she had been working tirelessly to achieve her dream of becoming a registered nurse, a dream she realized shortly before her passing.
Her cousin, Eyamba S. Scott, shared a deeply emotional tribute on Facebook, recalling her final conversation with Candace.
“It’s hard to even find the words right now. 💔 Last night, I lost three of my cousins in a tragic head-on collision. Candace had just celebrated her birthday on Saturday — we told each other I love you — and I’m so thankful for that moment. We talked about you becoming a registered nurse, and you did it! Graduation is in two weeks — you did it, Candace! You made it happen, and we’re all so proud of you. You loved your babies with everything in you.”
Candace’s loved ones describe her as a dedicated mother who poured her heart into her children, Gabrielle and Jordan. She was known for her kindness, her warm smile, and her ability to lift others up with her encouraging words. Family members say she had a special way of connecting with people and making them feel loved.
Jordan Brown: A Teen Full of Life, Love, and Laughter
At just 16 years old, Jordan Brown was a young man with a bright future ahead of him. He was known for his great sense of humor, his genuine personality, and his ability to bring people together. Jordan’s bond with his cousin Bird was inseparable — they were best friends who loved spending time together, laughing, and sharing inside jokes.
In the same Facebook post, Scott wrote:
“Jordan, just 16 — full of laughter, jokes, and genuine care between them. This feels like a nightmare I can’t wake up from. 💔 I can never visit or think about Colleton County again without remembering this tragedy.”
Friends of Jordan have also taken to social media to share their heartbreak, describing him as a caring young man who always looked out for others. His presence brought joy wherever he went, and those who knew him say his absence will be felt forever.
Jermane “Bird” Holmes Jr.: The Brightest Smile, Gone Too Soon
The youngest victim, Jermane “Bird” Holmes Jr., was only 8 years old. Bird was known for his infectious smile, playful spirit, and the way he could light up any room he entered. To his family, he was the heart of every gathering — full of energy, love, and curiosity.
Scott remembered Bird in her tribute with touching words:
“Bird, only 8 — that beautiful smile and joyful energy lit up every room.”
Another family member also poured out their grief online, sharing the deep pain of losing such young lives:
“My cousin man 🫠🫠🫠 Candace Bright I keep trying to sleep and every single time I just keep having dreams getting this news all over again. I feel sick to my stomach knowing that you all are gone! … The last thing Jordan said to me was when was I coming to see him? You just asked me to come home for Christmas!!! All Bird ever did was smile and hug me tight!!! Y’all didn’t deserve this AT ALL!!!! My thoughts are all over the place and my feelings are beyond hurt!!! I love y’all forever.”
A Family and Community in Mourning
The devastating loss of Candace, Jordan, and Bird has left the entire Colleton County community grieving. Friends and relatives describe them as kind-hearted, family-oriented, and full of life. The triple loss has been described as “unimaginable,” with loved ones struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
Candace’s dream of graduating and continuing her nursing career was meant to be a celebration of her hard work and perseverance. Instead, the community now prepares to celebrate her life and legacy, alongside Jordan and Bird, who brought so much love and laughter into the world during their short time on earth.
Local residents and friends have shared prayers and condolences online, offering emotional support to the grieving family. Messages of unity and love continue to pour in, with many reminding others of the importance of cherishing loved ones.
“Please keep our family in your prayers as we try to find strength through this unimaginable loss,” Scott wrote. “Hold your loved ones close — tomorrow is never promised.”
Honoring Their Memory
While official details about the cause of the head-on collision and funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly released, the impact of this tragedy is already being felt far and wide. The family asks for continued thoughts and prayers as they navigate the pain of losing three cherished members at once.
Candace Bright will be remembered as a loving mother, sister, and soon-to-be nurse who inspired others through her determination and compassion.
Jordan Brown will be remembered for his humor, kindness, and ability to make everyone laugh.
Jermane “Bird” Holmes Jr. will forever be remembered for his radiant smile and pure-hearted joy.
Together, their memories will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved them.
As Colleton County grieves, one message continues to echo through every tribute and every post: Life is fragile, tomorrow is never promised — love your family while you can.
