By Joe Johnson
A Winder family on Sunday lost one of their own to an intoxicated driver.
Now they are in need of help to lay 17-year-old Obianuju Faith Osuegbu to rest.
Uju, as she was known, was a senior at Winder-Barrow High School.
After finishing her job Sunday night at Ingles on West Board Street, she was riding her bicycle home when she was struck and killed by a car at the intersection of state Highway 11 and Pendergrass Road, not far from her neighborhood.
The driver of the car, 41-year-old Winder resident Chrissy D. Rawlins, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to the Georgia State Patrol, which indicated additional charges might be brought after the DA's office reviews the case.
At WBHS, Uju "loved all things music and soccer,” said her brother, Paul Osuegbu.
"She played club volleyball her sophomore year of high school and had a love for the game."
Her college plans included majoring in film production "to take her love of music and creating stories," Paul said.
The grieving brother said that Uju was an "avid and fearless" bike rider" and had an interest in politics.
"She had a beautiful singing voice and the best sense of humor," Paul said.
Uju is survived by her parents, two brothers and a sister.
A GoFundMe account was established by Uju's sister-in-law, Megan Osuegbu, for anyone who wishes to allow the family to grieve for their loss without the overwhelming financial stress from meeting funeral and burial expenses.
Arrangements are being handled by Smith Memory Chapel in Winder.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, to be announced on the funeral home's website.