Under the lights at Trojan Field on October 18, 2024, students, fans, and alumni anticipated the coronation of a new homecoming queen. In the midst of this tradition, one young woman was about to make one of the most cherished memories of her lifetime. As the name Faith Buice was announced, a roar of cheers and applause billowed through the stadium, and Faith’s smile lit up the night with her beloved mother by her side. Mica Buice, Faith’s mom, could not contain her joy, letting out an ecstatic scream and throwing her hands into the air in celebration as her daughter was crowned the 2024 homecoming queen of Lamar County High School. Faith’s journey to the crown was more than a moment in time; it was a testament to her character, charisma, and the decency that had made her beloved by her peers.
This story began long before high school. Faith was adopted by Mica Buice, who felt a deep calling to be a mother. “I promised God eighteen years ago, that if He would give me a family, I would bring them up in church. He kept His promise so I will continue to keep mine. We are not a traditional family, but we make it work,” Mica shared. “Although we are not blood-related, we were brought together as a family by our Creator. He had me in mind when each one was formed in the womb.”
The second Mica held Faith in her arms, she knew their bond was special. “I chose to love them, I chose to be their mom, and I chose to share my life with them,” Mica said of her three children, all adopted. For Faith, the love and support of her mother have been a constant source of strength. “God had my mama in mind when He was making me,” Faith said. “I’m so happy that she is the one who adopted me, and that God had that in our plan.” Faith’s upbringing provided her with a foundation of love and faith that has shaped her character.
Faith’s time as a student in Lamar County began during her freshman year of high school when she and her family moved to the community. Adjusting to a new school with new classmates can be challenging, and Faith’s transition was not without its hardships. Mica mentioned that hearing Faith’s name was verification that she had overcome those obstacles over the last four years. However, coming from a larger school, Faith found the close-knit spirit of Lamar County both refreshing and different.
“It was a big change, but one of the things I like most about Lamar County is how everyone knows each other,” Faith said. “At my old school, it was hard to really know all your peers because there were so many of them.” She is thankful for the friendships she has made over the past four years.
Through her kindness and genuineness, Faith quickly made her mark on Trojan Nation. She became actively involved in extracurricular activities, including varsity football cheerleading, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Beta Club, National Honor Society, and serving as a football film manager for the past two seasons. These experiences not only put her dedication on display but also allowed her to bond with her peers and influence the culture of the school. Each moment endeared Faith to her schoolmates and made her a worthy choice for homecoming queen.
When asked what qualities make Faith a great choice for homecoming queen, Faith’s mother described her daughter as “beautiful inside and out,” emphasizing Faith’s genuine care and respect for others. “She speaks to everyone she knows and treats everyone equally, no matter their age or background,” Mica shared. “She’s watched every princess movie ever made, so she even has the wave down pat!”
Disney princesses can be great influences, but Faith gave credit to her mother as her biggest influence in her life. “My mama is one of my biggest inspirations in life because she is the strongest, most hardworking, and coolest person I know,” Faith said. “She’s a ray of sunshine and brightens everyone’s day. I hope people see those same characteristics in me.”
In addition to her warm personality, Faith’s faith in Jesus Christ is central to who she is. She credits her daily motivation and positivity to her relationship with Christ. Mica said one of her proudest moments as a parent was when Faith decided to become a Christian and be baptized. “Since then, she has lived a life that reflects that decision daily,” said her mother.
The big moment at Trojan Field was more than another high school tradition. It was a milestone in an extraordinary journey shaped by a loving mother and a high school senior’s admirable qualities. Reflecting on the moment, Faith described her reaction: “When my name was announced, I was in shock because I was not expecting to win. My whole body kind of went numb, and my hands started shaking. It all happened so fast.”
For Mica, Faith’s mother, the moment was validation of how much her daughter had conquered. “Faith stayed true to herself and her faith. She persevered and showed everyone what a wonderful person she is. To hear her name announced as the winner made me proud as her mother.”
Faith’s future goals include attending college and majoring in elementary education, desiring to make a positive impact on the lives of children. Mica, reflecting on what she wants for Faith’s future, talked about the importance of staying connected to the values that have grounded her so far. “I hope she continues to treat everyone with love and respect, to be an advocate for those who are mistreated for being different, and to hold on to her faith in God,” Mica said.
As the cheers of the crowd lifted into the sky that Friday night, Faith reminded everyone of the beauty found in resilience, tenderness, and faith in God. As Faith steps into adulthood, this night served as a celebration of her remarkable story—a story of the power of family, divine providence, and impeccable character.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
