Tuscaloosa, Ala. (WDNews) — The University of Alabama community gathered in large numbers this week to honor the life of student James “Jimmy” Gracey following his death during a spring break trip in Spain.
According to reports, a standing-room-only Catholic mass was held Monday evening at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish, where students, friends and faculty filled the church to capacity.
The remembrance continued Tuesday night as hundreds gathered outside the Theta Chi fraternity house for a candlelight vigil organized by Gracey’s fraternity brothers.
According to reports, speakers at the vigil, including Theta Chi International President Toby Roth, shared personal reflections on Gracey’s character as mourners filled the lawn and surrounding areas. University of Alabama President Peter Mohler also attended.
According to a fundraising page created to assist his family, Gracey is being remembered as someone who “showed up for people, always making others feel seen and valued.”
“He loved his family deeply, was a loyal friend and teammate, and was admired for his faith, love of Jesus and the way he carried himself,” the site states.
