Fayetteville NC – This past weekend, Festival Park was filled with powerful unity and heartfelt remembrance as the community honored the life of Zion Gibbs, a young boy lost too soon due to senseless gun violence. The day was more than a memorial—it was a heartfelt stand against violence, a push for peace, and a celebration of Zion’s impact of love.
Organized by Myra Gibbs, Zion’s mother, the day was a reflection of her son’s legacy — a boy known for his big heart, joyful nature, and deep care for others. While still grieving her loss, Myra has carried his memory with strength and turned that pain into purpose by launching the nonprofit Zion Legacy of Love. The event was her way of sharing Zion’s special trait of love with the world — uniting the city in the values he represented: compassion, joy, and connection.
The day began with a peaceful Cruise for Peace, featuring a caravan of Corvettes and other vehicles riding from Walmart on Gillis Hill Rd down Raeford Road to Festival Park. The cruise showed strong public support for the Gibbs family, with drivers, car clubs, and supporters coming together in a peaceful show of strength and solidarity.
At Festival Park, the community block party welcomed hundreds of residents with music, games, and heartfelt energy. Early in the week, the day was forecasted for storms, but somehow made a great day and showcased some of the warmest weather of the year. The event featured bounce houses, bubble play zones, lawn games, video games, temporary tattoos, and plenty of candy for kids to enjoy. Families, vendors, and first responders came together, surrounded by laughter, hugs, and shared memories.
An added support to the day came from nonprofit DrumzUp GunzDown, which connected with youth through music and rhythm, offering free drum lessons and performances. Their presence helped show how creative outlets can empower young lives and give expression to emotion and energy in positive ways.
Parents gathered under shaded tents, while children played nearby. Smiles, hugs, and emotional conversation s created an atmosphere that was both joyful and reflective. Community members paused at the main tent to learn about Zion’s story and the mission behind Zion Legacy of Love, many giving their support for Myra and her mission.
Though this was the nonprofit’s first public event, it made an impact to those who opened their hearts and mind to ref lect on the day. The turnout reflected those who supported Zion, and the movement for a safer community: neighbors, families, and advocates standing together for peace, love, and unity.
Special thanks to the sponsors who made it possible:
- Fayetteville Police Department
- The Group Theory
- WatchOut Cu mberland County
- Club Love
- Camaros of the Carolinas
- Sherwin-Williams
- One Common Bond
For more info, visit: www.ZionGibbs.com
Follow: Zion’s Legacy of Love on Facebook
