SARASOTA – It was an emotional day for family and friends of Jabez Spann as they finally got some closure and laid the teen to rest.
Dozens gathered to pay their respect and say their final goodbyes to Jabez Spann. After 18 months of searching for answers the family can now begin to heal.
“He was an amazing young man, very bright, very energetic, very athletic,” Dr. Harriet Moore.
Moore, Jabez school principal, came to the service to support the family and classmates as they said their goodbyes.
“One of the things that was so impressive about Jabez is Jabez had a smile that could melt butter, so you can imagine what it did to our hearts,” said Moore.
Friends read passages from the bible and even shared memories to celebrate his life. Deandre Higdon has known Jabez since they were seven years old and started dancing together.
“To me I feel like …I just want justice and it’s just sad that he really is gone. I just don’t believe it,” said Higdon.
Higdon remembers Jabez fun personality and his energetic persona.
“He was fun, energetic, and he was very athletic,” said Higdon. “That’s my favorite memory, very athletic. I mean when we were dancing he use to always be the one to do like flips or whatever, it was just a fun, fun experience with him and I just…I miss him.”
Doves, released into the air…a symbol of letting Jabez spirit go…but continuing honor his life.
The family plans to start the Jabez Spann foundation to help other families with the resources to find their missing loved ones.
