On the evening of February 8, 2025, the Wilmington community was struck by a heartbreaking tragedy when Moriah Lewis, a student at Winston-Salem State University and the beloved daughter of Jeffrey “QB” Lewis, the owner of QB’s Barbershop and Salon in Wilmington, Delaware, tragically took her own life. Moriah’s death has left her family, friends, and the entire community in deep mourning, as they come to terms with the loss of such a vibrant, kind-hearted young woman.
The devastating news was shared by Jeffrey Lewis on his personal Facebook page, where he expressed his overwhelming sorrow and disbelief. In a heartfelt post, he wrote, “Last night my baby girl passed away due to taking her own life (Suicide)… I probably will never understand or will never know the why… but she had to know she was loved by so many people…” His words, filled with grief and the desperate search for answers, have resonated deeply with those who have been touched by Moriah’s life and the Lewis family’s presence in Wilmington.
Moriah Lewis was not just a student or the daughter of a respected community leader—she was a cherished individual known for her warm smile, kind heart, and the positivity she spread to those around her. Those who knew Moriah describe her as someone who made a lasting impression through her generosity, compassion, and the joy she brought into the lives of others. Her passing has created an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the greater Wilmington community.
Her father, Jeffrey “QB” Lewis, has been a pillar of the Wilmington community for years. Through his barbershop and salon, QB’s Barbershop and Salon, he has not only provided a space for grooming but has also built a community of support and connection. The barbershop, a place where people come together to share stories, seek advice, and support one another, has been a reflection of Jeffrey’s dedication to the well-being of his customers and the broader Wilmington community. Now, in the face of such a profound personal loss, the entire city is rallying around the Lewis family, offering their condolences, prayers, and support.
In the wake of Moriah’s death, many members of the community have taken to social media to share their grief and offer words of comfort to Jeffrey and the Lewis family. Tributes have poured in from friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, all of whom have been impacted by Moriah’s life. Some have shared memories of Moriah, recalling her infectious spirit and the kindness she showed to everyone she met. Others have used the tragedy to highlight the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention, calling for open conversations about emotional struggles and the support systems needed to help those who are struggling.
One person wrote on social media: “Last night Jeffrey QB’s Lewis’ daughter committed suicide. Please pray for him and the family. Please Facebook, leave him some encouraging words.” This call for prayers and support reflects the community’s collective effort to lift up the Lewis family during this incredibly difficult time.
Moriah’s passing serves as a painful reminder of the mental health challenges that many young people face, often in silence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, especially among young people. Moriah’s tragic death underscores the urgency of addressing mental health issues in society, particularly within communities where individuals may feel isolated or overwhelmed by their emotions.
Suicide prevention experts emphasize the importance of creating safe spaces where people can talk openly about their struggles without fear of judgment or stigma. It is vital that communities come together to provide the necessary support and resources for those who may be struggling with their mental health. The absence of visible signs does not mean that someone is not suffering, and it is crucial that people—especially young adults—feel they can reach out for help without fear of being dismissed or misunderstood.
Resources for those struggling with emotional distress or contemplating suicide are available and should be utilized. National hotlines, counseling services, and local mental health organizations exist to provide support for individuals in crisis. The ability to reach out to someone in a moment of need can make all the difference, and having a network of supportive individuals around can provide a sense of hope and connection.
As the Lewis family navigates this overwhelming tragedy, they are not alone in their grief. The Wilmington community, deeply touched by Moriah’s life, is coming together to support the family in every way possible. Whether through organizing memorial services, offering condolences, or simply being there for Jeffrey and his family, the city of Wilmington is showing the kind of community solidarity that Moriah herself embodied during her lifetime.
Moriah’s death also highlights the need for more comprehensive mental health support within schools and universities. As a student at Winston-Salem State University, Moriah was part of a larger academic community that should provide students with resources to cope with stress, depression, and other mental health challenges. Educational institutions must prioritize mental health services, ensuring that students are equipped with the tools and support they need to maintain their emotional well-being. With suicide rates on the rise, especially among young adults, schools and universities must take proactive steps to create an environment where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
As Moriah’s family prepares for her funeral services, her memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her. A funeral service will be held to honor her life, and the community will gather to celebrate the impact she had on so many people. Moriah’s parents, siblings, friends, and all who were touched by her presence will remember her with love and respect, cherishing the moments they shared with her.
This tragedy has been a wake-up call for the importance of addressing mental health issues in a more open and understanding way. Moriah’s passing should inspire individuals to look out for one another, to check in on friends, family members, and colleagues, and to reach out for help when needed. The Lewis family’s loss is a reminder to all of us that life is fragile, and the emotional well-being of those around us should never be taken for granted.
As the investigation into Moriah’s death continues and the community processes their grief, the Lewis family will need continued support and compassion as they cope with the loss of their daughter and sister. The outpouring of love and remembrance for Moriah speaks to the profound impact she had on her community, and while her life was tragically cut short, her memory will continue to inspire others to be kind, compassionate, and supportive.