Wedding Party
Demetri McKenzie
Best Man
Hello, my name is Demetri McKenzie aka Gumby, I have been a registered nurse for over 8 years and currently live in St. Louis, Missouri. I’m married to Dr. Haley McKenzie, and together we are the parents of Denham and DJ. I’ve known Justin, aka Dro, for over a decade now. We met back in 2013 at William Carey College through our mutual friend Big E, and we’ve been cool ever since. Justin has always been a cool, down-to-earth guy who isn’t afraid to hold his friends accountable, and that’s something I’ve always respected about him. I wish Justin and Debra nothing but love and happiness for many years to come, and I’m glad he found someone who truly completes him.
Phillip Norton
Best Man
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Justin since 2008 and if there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s that he’s the kind of person you want in your corner. Justin and I met at University of Southern Mississippi and eventually became roommates. Justin and I went from roommates to brothers. He’s loyal, hardworking, and always the guy you can count on—whether it’s for advice, a laugh, or help when you need it most. Over the years I’ve watched him grow into an incredible man, but the best version of him showed up when he met Debra. The way he loves and supports her says everything about the kind of husband he’s going to be. He’s not only a great friend, but someone who brings people together and makes every moment more memorable. I’m honored to stand beside him on one of the biggest days of his life and can’t wait to see the amazing life he and Debra build together.
Micheal Needham
Groomsman
I live in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, with my wife, Jennifer Addy Needham, and our three children: Jackson, Addy, and Meri Frances. I’m a proud husband, father, and soldier who values family, friendship, and service. I’ve known Justin for five years. Our friendship began while serving together as platoon leaders in Alpha Company, 106th Support Battalion, and it grew even stronger during our 2023–2024 deployment with India Company, 1st Battalion, 155th Infantry Regiment. What started as a professional partnership quickly became a lasting friendship, I’m honored to stand beside Justin as a groomsman.
Stevie Lavell Woods, II
Groomsman
I am a professional trucker and take pride in operating dump trucks. Justin is my cousin—he’s like a big brother to me. We’ve known each other our entire lives and grew up together in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Moorhead, Mississippi, where the Southern crossed the Yellow Dog. I’m also a family man who loves spending time with my loved ones and traveling. One of my most memorable moments was when I turned 21 and overindulged after following Justin’s advice—let’s just say I ended up learning a lesson the hard way. My advice to the groom is simple: stay faithful and true. I wish you both a lifetime filled with love, peace, and happiness.
Roderick Hathett
Groomsman
I’m the groom’s college roommate and lifelong friend. From late-night study sessions to laugh-until-we- cry dorm moments, we shared some unforgettable college memories. Over the years, I’ve come to admire his quick wit, big heart, and loyalty. Watching him marry the love of his life is incredibly special, and I’m honored to stand by his side on this big day.
Jason Kelley
Groomsman
Hi, my name is Jason. I’m Debra’s older and most handsome brother lol. Some of my fondest memories are of us spending hours in the kitchen on clean-up duty after dinner. Even though simple moments, they were filled with so much love and laughter that I’ll forever cherish. It’s been such an awesome journey to watch my baby sister grow from a silly little girl into the amazing woman she is today. I couldn’t be prouder. Debra, you deserve all the wonderful things life has to offer. Debra & Justin, I wish you a lifetime of love, happiness, friendship, and growth together.
Gavin Jones
Groomsman
I am a professional auto detailer based in Plano, TX with expertise in paint correction, ceramic coatings, and show-quality finishing. When I’m not elevating cars to showroom conditions, I enjoy attending automotive events and road trips that fuel my creativity and industry knowledge. I’m honored to be a groomsman for my cousin and excited to celebrate this milestone with family and friends.
Marquis McGloster
Groomsman
I’ve been the groom’s partner in crime since our dorm room days, where late-night conversations turned into years of great memories and friendship. Watching him find the love of his life has been incredible, and I’m honored to stand by his side on such an important day.
Calvin Franklin Jr.
Usher
Bride’s Brother
Ricky Elem Jr.
Usher
Groom’s Brother
Carter Kelley
Junior Groomsman
Mekhi Davis
Junior Groomsman
James Bell Jr.
Ring Bearer
Kimberly Hereford
Maid of Honor
Hi, I’m Kimberly, but most people call me Kim. Deb is my first cousin, but we’ve shared a sister-like bond since birth. One of my favorite memories is helping her move from Chicago to Texas. Even though I didn’t’ want her to leave, I was so proud of her courage and faith as she stepped into a new chapter. I knew she was exactly where she was meant to be. I admire her caring heart—she’s humble, graceful, and always there for the people she loves. It’s truly an honor to stand beside her as her Maid of Honor.
Ambrosia Cooper
Matron of Honor
As cousins, Debra and I share a special bond; she’s more like a sister to me. Despite growing up in different cities, we made sure to stay connected through family reunions, spring breaks, summer vacations, graduations, and birthday celebrations. We never missed an opportunity to have belly laughs and straight-up fun. Our bond runs deep, and I’m excited to welcome my new cousin-in-law into our family.
Tasha Jones
Matron of Honor
I’m Tasha. I live in Horn Lake, Mississippi, with my husband and our dog, and I work as a Pharmacy Technician at Baptist Memorial Hospital. The bride is my sister, and I’ve been blessed to know and love her since we were kids. Even though we didn’t grow up living in the same home, my sister always made sure I felt loved and supported. Her kindness knows no bounds, and I’m so grateful for every moment we share. I couldn’t be happier for her as she begins this new chapter, and I wish her and Justin a lifetime of happiness, love, and blessings.
Alvina Franklin
Bridesmaid
My name is Alvina Franklin, and Debra is my cousin who I’ve known my whole life. I’m from Thornton, Illinois, and I enjoy binge-watching TV shows. One of my favorite memories with Debra is our Monday workouts. We didn’t just sweat—we laughed nonstop and talked about our goals for the future. I love that I can always vent to her, and she’ll listen with just the right amount of honesty. Debra is one of the kindest, strongest, and most determined people I know. It’s truly an honor to stand by her side as one of her bridesmaids.
Bridgette Bell
Bridesmaid
Hi, I’m Bridgette. Debra and I are sister/cousins, as we like to call it. I’ve known Debra for as long as I’ve known what family was. I’m from the south side of Chicago but currently reside in Atlanta. We have so many memories that it’s hard to choose just one to share—from the many family gatherings to our college days when she invited us to visit and experience college life, to the summer days running around Chicago, and the countless sleepovers from house to house. All I know is Debra is one of the big cousins who helped shape me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Krystal Honeysucker
Bridesmaid
Hello, my name is Krystal. I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Chicago, where I work as a Financial Solutions Specialist. I had the pleasure of meeting the bride 16 years ago through her brother, who is now my fiancé. From the very beginning, she welcomed me with warmth and kindness and made me feel like part of the family. Deb is such a loving and compassionate person with a truly beautiful heart. I feel incredibly blessed to have her as my “Sister-In-Love”, and I’m even more honored to stand by her side on such a special day.
Tamika Jackson
Bridesmaid
Debra and I met on the campus of Northern Illinois University when I sought out membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 2011. What began through our shared sisterhood quickly grew into a lasting friendship filled with countless memories. Over the years, we’ve remained close through every stage of life. From our early days in Chicago to now both calling Dallas home, our bond has only grown stronger. I’m incredibly grateful for the journey we’ve shared and so honored to stand by her side as a bridesmaid on such a special day.
Shannice Berry
Bridesmaid
Debra and I met in 2009 when we were both initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated while attending Northern Illinois University. Since that time, I have been blessed to call her my best friend and my ship. Our friendship has truly stood the test of time, and we have created some of our best memories together. We were even roommates in college, such fun and unforgettable times. I am beyond excited to witness and support her in this next chapter of her life, including her beautiful journey into marriage. Debra is one of the sweetest and kindest women I know. I am so grateful to have her as my best friend, and even more honored to stand by her side as a bridesmaid. One of my favorite memories with Debra is spending Christmas night at her family’s home, enjoying time with the Franklins, and then having our own little celebration in the basement. Debra has always made me feel like family, I always joke and say I’m one of the cousins.
Ava Franklin
Junior Bridesmaid
Kylie Franklin
Junior Bridesmaid
Bella Franklin
Flower Girl
Clarice Franklin
Master of Ceremony
Bride’s Cousin