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NEW ORLEANS — While celebrating her 25th birthday on a cruise on March 7, 2020, Brianna Renesha Baptiste Hayes died due to complications of COVID-19. She was one of the first cases recorded in the New Orleans Metropolitan Area.

Brianna was a light in many people’s lives, and although she was disabled, she never let that stop her from being full of life. She dedicated her life helping children and senior citizens from New Orleans, the River Parishes and Baton Rouge.

Her energy made everyone love her and feel loved, according to her mother, Tyiece Howard.

“Brianna was our shining star.  Brianna attended Southern University as a business major. Most of all, she loved God and her church ministry,” Howard said. “Brianna loved being able to service those that were underprivileged or just needed someone to listen or spend a few moments with. She is greatly missed by family, friends and individuals in the surrounding communities.”

For these reasons, Brianna’s friends and family have decided to do a Christmas Toy Giveaway & Baskets to senior citizens from the River Parishes, New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

“While the opportunity is limited, we plan to service several families and continue to do so in the years to come,” Howard said.

To register for the event please email tbhoward.servingup@gmail.com. Spots are filling up fast. Information on location will be provided once registered.

Brianna’s family and friends along with the Charbonnet Law Firm, Royal Academy Inc., & Visions for the Future, LLC are happy to provide to families in need.