Pastor Ricky Floyd was shot dead outside a bar and restaurant in downtown Memphis.
On Wednesday morning, the Memphis Police Department (MPD) reported that Ricky Floyd, a pastor in Memphis, was shot and killed outside a bar and restaurant in Downtown Memphis.
initially announced Floyd’s passing at 9:30 a.m., following confirmation from several sources that he was who he claimed to be. An hour later, in a social media post, MPD verified Floyd’s identification.
A shooting happened in front of Momma’s Bar and Grill, which is situated near the intersection of Crump and Kentucky Street, according to the Memphis Police Department (MPD), shortly after one in the morning. According to MPD, Samantha Marion, 42, was arrested and charged with voluntary manslaughter in connection with Floyd’s death.
Floyd, the pastor of The Pursuit of God Church, was well-known throughout Memphis, especially in Frayser, where he carried out his ministry. However, Floyd’s legacy reached far beyond the walls of his church. Floyd was a pillar of the community. He worked to keep teens out of trouble and helped young people turn their lives around. He bought and refurbished a strip mall across from his Frayser church, creating jobs for young men from single-parent homes. He also founded the “Husband Institute,” a program aimed at helping young men stay on a good path. He authored a book and served on multiple boards and was even recognized by the FBI Memphis Field Office for his efforts to reduce crime and violence in the city.
Moments after MPD confirmed Floyd’s death, Rev. Earle Fisher spoke to FOX13 about the whole Floyd’s death leaves in the Memphis faith community.
“Those of us who knew Pastor Floyd knew him as a very eclectic kind of faith leader, someone who was willing to do unconventional methods and measures to reach people. As much as the Black church gets criticized for what the Black church doesn’t do, he definitely wasn’t one of those pastors who tried to limit his work to Sunday morning service or the four walls of his building. He was out in the community. He was involved in economic development initiatives and public safety initiatives. So now we have to try to figure out how to pick up some of the broken pieces that are left now after this,” Rev. Fisher said.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young took to X to grieve Floyd’s death, saying, “My heart is more than heavy today as we mourn the tragic loss of Pastor Ricky Floyd to senseless gun violence. Pastor Floyd was a beloved leader, friend, mentor, and servant to our city. He dedicated his life to lifting up others and guiding countless souls with his wisdom. His death is more than a loss for his family and his congregation—it is a loss for Memphis. Gun violence in our city has taken too many lives, shattered too many families, and left too many communities in grief. This must stop. We cannot allow senseless violence to define us. We must stand together—neighbors, leaders, law enforcement, and faith communities—to bring meaningful, lasting change. I ask every Memphian to pray for Pastor Floyd’s family, his congregation, and all who are hurting. Let’s move into action. Let’s work together to build a Memphis where tragedies like this are no longer a daily reality. We owe it to Pastor Floyd, and we owe it to each other. Rest in power, Pastor Floyd. Your light will not be forgotten.”
The Pursuit of God Church in Memphis, Pastor Floyd’s church home, also took to social media to grieve his loss.
“His unwavering dedication to our community and his profound impact on the lives of those he touched will be remembered and cherished. During this difficult time, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we make the necessary arrangements to honor his life and legacy. Please give the family the time they need to mourn. We will community the details of the memorial services and final arrangements as soon as they are finalized. Thank you for your support and prayers during this time of mourning,” the church said.
In a statement, Memphis City Council called Floyd’s death “a tragic loss” and said he was “a pillar of strength, a relentless advocate for change, and a guiding force for hope and transformation in our city.” The Council’s full statement is below:
“It is with profound sorrow that we mourn the tragic loss of Pastor Ricky Floyd, who was senselessly taken from us on March 12, 2025, in Memphis, TN. Pastor Floyd was more than a spiritual leader—he was a pillar of strength, a relentless advocate for change, and a guiding force for hope and transformation in our city. Pastor Floyd was not only a beloved spiritual leader but also a trusted community advocate and dedicated member of the Memphis Police Advisory Committee. His tireless efforts to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community exemplified his deep commitment to justice, peace, and unity.
As the founder and senior pastor of The Pursuit of God Transformation Center, Pastor Floyd’s leadership extended beyond advocacy—he was a beacon of hope, faith, and empowerment for countless individuals, dedicating his life to uplifting individuals, restoring families, and strengthening communities. His mentorship and ministry uplifted families, strengthened communities, and provided unwavering support to those in need.
To Pastor Floyd’s wife, Pastor Sheila Floyd, as well as his congregation, family, friends, and everyone he impacted, the Memphis City Council sends its sincerest sympathies. By carrying on the work he so fervently supported, we will pay tribute to his legacy. Although he is no longer with Memphis, his influence will last for many years. Please give the Floyd family time to grieve and respect their right to privacy during this difficult time. Come pray with our Memphis community. Both our city and the Floyd family are blessed.