Jamaria Latresa Bunch - Her Life and Legacy

Jamaria Latresa Bunch, affectionately called “Jam,” was more than a name; she was a mother, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, and a loved one whose life will forever be woven into the hearts of her family. Her journey on this earth created memories, bonds, and a legacy of love that time can never erase.

Jam had a presence that was uniquely her own. To know her was to know her personality, her spirit, and the love she carried for those closest to her. She shared laughter, joy, struggles, and countless moments with her family that will now become treasured memories. Though words can never fully express the pain of losing her, her family will continue to speak her name, share her stories, and hold tightly to every precious memory.

At the center of Jam's heart were her children, Harmonee’ Hayes, Zakarii McFadden, Karter McFadden, Ah’zuad Bunch, NorRii Covington, and Jawan Hayes Jr. They were an important part of her life and will forever be a beautiful reflection of her legacy. Through each of them, a piece of Jam continues to live, grow, smile, and shine. May they always know how deeply their mother will be loved, remembered, and missed.

The bond of family was an important part of Jam's story. In addition to her children, she leaves to cherish her precious memory her aunt, Gwendolyn Thompson; uncle, Charles Smith; fathers of her children, Jawan Hayes Sr., and Phillip McFadden; and her siblings, Ashanta Byrd-Arnold, Lester Byrd, Lakesha Byrd, Rosa Byrd, Jonay Howard, Jaquita Howard, and Samuel Lee. She also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her presence.

Jam was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Angela Bunch and Lester Howard; her grandparents, James and Beulah Bunch, Isabella Howard, and Sallie Mae McFadden. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in imagining her welcomed into the loving arms of those who journeyed home before her.

Jam's life reminds us that a person's legacy is not measured simply by the number of years they lived, but by the memories they created and the love that remains after they are gone. Her legacy lives in her children. It lives in the hearts of her brothers and sisters. It lives in the laughter remembered, the stories that will be told again and again, and the moments her family will carry quietly in their hearts.

There will be days when her absence feels especially heavy and moments when a song, a memory, or a familiar thought brings Jam close again. In those moments, may her family remember that love does not end with “goodbye.” The bond shared with Jam will forever remain a part of each person who loved her.

Today, we do not simply mourn the passing of Jamaria Latresa Bunch, we honor her life, cherish her memory, and celebrate the legacy she leaves behind. Though she is no longer here for us to see or hold, her love and memory will continue to surround her family for generations to come.

Jam, you were loved in life, you are loved beyond words in death, and you will never be forgotten. Your name, your story, and your legacy will live on forever.

Rest peacefully, Jam. Until we meet again.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, July 10, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30pm Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. The family visitation will be held from 12noon until 12:30pm on Saturday at the Church.