Traniya Ward, a 12-year-old girl from Biloxi, Mississippi, passed away after battling severe burns sustained in a fire that destroyed her family’s apartment in March 2024. Traniya’s stepfather, Roderick Starks, expressed the ongoing grief, stating, “It still doesn’t feel real.”
The fire left Traniya with approximately 80% of her body covered in third-degree burns. Her younger brother, Tomereo Ward, also suffered serious burns, covering half of his 10-year-old body. Both children, along with their stepfather, were hospitalized following the incident. Traniya was transferred to a hospital in Galveston, Texas, where her grandmother, Miko Butler, stayed by her side throughout her recovery.
Despite the severity of her injuries, Traniya remained hopeful, setting a goal to leave the hospital by her birthday on October 24, 2024. Her family witnessed her fighting spirit, though Traniya remained bedridden due to her condition. Her family was supported by the local community, with assistance from the Free Masons of Gulfport and other anonymous donors, which helped cover medical bills and find a new home.
Traniya endured over 60 surgeries, but after the new year, her condition worsened. The young girl’s heart became weak, and she began losing too much blood. Despite the hospital staff’s best efforts, her body could not withstand the trauma. Miko Butler remained by Traniya’s side until the end, never leaving her granddaughter’s room.
On January 20, Starks received the heartbreaking news of Traniya’s passing. The loss was especially devastating for Traniya’s mother, Tyneshia Butler, who is struggling to cope. Tomereo, though deeply affected, continues to show strength in his own way.
Traniya’s legacy lives on in the memories of the medical staff at the hospital, who speak of the impact she had on them, challenging them to become better professionals. Funeral arrangements have been made in McComb, Mississippi.
