‘My heart hurts’: Loved ones mourn the loss of a gentle giant

For many friends and loved ones in Grand Bahama, the hardest part is not understanding how a man so widely described as kind, humble and respectful is now gone senselessly?

After 44-year-old Stafford Ferguson was fatally shot, friends, customers and acquaintances shared memories of a man they say touched countless lives through his humility and kindness.

At Smitty’s Restaurant and Bar, where Ferguson was a regular customer, staff members say his absence is already being felt.

“He was family,” the restaurant said in a statement.

“Every morning, we could count on seeing his smile as he joined us for breakfast. Over the years, he became a cherished part of the Smitty’s family, and his kindness, friendship and presence touched all of our hearts.”

According to police, Ferguson was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds beside his vehicle outside a business establishment in Hunters on Friday night. He later succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical treatment.

Investigators say he was walking toward his vehicle when he was approached by a lone gunman dressed in dark clothing who opened fire before fleeing the area.

As news of his death spread, many struggled to process what had happened.

“Never in my life I thought I would be putting RIP to your name and picture,” wrote Denethra Bridgewater. “My chest is so tight. I can’t process what is going on right now. My Dribbles. Oh my Dribbles.”

She remembered him as “the sweetest person anyone could have ever met.”

Others echoed similar sentiments.

“A gentle giant,” wrote Alfred Williams.

“Wow, there are no words,” said Shelly Carey. “I saw you and spoke to you the day before.”

Friends described Stafford as calm, respectful and dependable.

April Garvey remembered him as one of her best customers. “Always polite, calm and respectful,” she said.

Rochell Minnis recalled someone she could always count on. “He was always there when I needed him. His demeanor never changed.”

The question she asked is one many are now asking themselves. “Why? Why?”

His friend Anthonese Williams described Ferguson as “a pillar of strength” whose generosity and support impacted countless people. “His presence brought comfort, laughter and encouragement to so many.”

Others had just seen him at the beach just a day earlier.

As loved ones continue to mourn, many are also calling for justice.