Hit-and-run Victim Laid to Rest

It was an emotional day Saturday as the family and friends of an Atlanta child killed in a hit-and-run accident in front of her own home said their final goodbyes.

Mourners of all ages marched up the aisles of The Cathedral of Faith Church of God in Christ Saturday to bid a final farewell to 11-year-old Terriona Ison.

Ison was struck and killed by the driver of a stolen car last Sunday morning as she crossed the street in front of her southwest Atlanta home to get the mail.

Adults and children alike were visibly shaken during the homegoing service. Ison was described as a star student who was on the honor roll, the dance team and part of the safety patrol.

"She was a nice, kind, loving young girl. I want everybody to get close to God and pray," said Ison's cousin, Marteia Johnson.

Many of Ison's schoolmates from William Boyd Elementary School were at the funeral trying to choke back tears.

"I was comforting the kids because my heart goes out to all the kids. The kids took it real hard, but I think it?s a message to everybody," said Melanie McLeod, an Ison family friend.

"We?re letting them understand the biblical way of passing and going home and the reason why they're on this earth, they don?t have long, its only temporary," said Ison's father, Terence.

As the casket was slowly closed on a life many felt was taken much too soon, family members must now find the strength to cope with their loss.

Ison was taken to her final resting place by a horse-driven carriage as mourners watched with heavy hearts.

Police have arrested, 23-year-old Tory Fairchild, who is believed to be the driver of the car that killed Ison. Fairchild was denied bond Friday during his first court appearance.