Community gathers at funeral for victims of the deadly motel fire

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. – Two weeks after the Cosmo Extended Stay Motel fire claimed the lives of Kiarre Curtis and five of her young children, the community gathered at Greater Community Christian Fellowship church for a final service.

“Right now I’m just really at a loss for words. It’s so sad,” said family member Annette Curtis

Robert McCoy is an attorney for this case; he appreciated the turnout by the community. “This outpouring shows that this community is in harmony,” he said.

Bruce McCoy gave the eulogy at the funeral. He also was touched by the community’s support “It gave us great hope and great strength,” McCoy said.

The family holds memories of Kiarre Curtis and her five young boys who each died of smoke inhalation from the fire that scorched the Cosmo Extended Stay Motel in Sodus Township. 10-year-old Marquis was the protector. 7-year-old Gerome was the playful one. 5-year-old Samuel was very smart. 4-year-old Savod was the mama’s boy. 2-year-old Avery brought joy and laughter to everyone. These memories were shared in the funeral program.

Sam Curtis, Kiaree’s husband and the children’s father, as well as their 1-year old daughter survived the fire.

“The community is still suffering. The community is in tears just as well as the family,” said McCoy.

“God is our greatest help,” McCoy explained. The family finds peace in their faith. “We’re gonna get through it. And if we can get through it, anybody else can get through whatever they’re going through as well”

More than seven thousand dollars has been raised for the family and funeral expenses. The family asks to keep donating to the go fund me page, but they also request you keep them in your prayers.

You can help the Curtis family here: https://www.gofundme.com/curtis-family-tragedy