What started out as a solemn vigil with hugs and tears, turned into a celebration of life.
Loved ones filed in by the dozens and soon hundreds of people filled the pavilion at Kiwanis Recreation Park Sunday night to honor 16-year-old Yorry Timley.
"He was such a huge part of my life as well as everybody else's, obviously," said Michelle Timley, Yorry's mom.
Michelle says Yorry's bright personality was contagious
"My son has this huge bright smile, and whenever he would come in the room, he would make me smile too," she said.
The soccer and track and field star was shot and killed Friday night in the 500 block of Mentor Avenue in Painesville. We are still learning what lead up to his untimely death, but his mom shares her version of what Yorry's friends say happened.
"From what I understand, it was all over a PS4 that didn't belong to his child and my son returned it to the rightful owner," she said.
Although her son is gone, Michelle says she's encouraged by the outpouring of love.
"As I watched all the cars, I wanted to cry but I couldn't because it was all love," said Michelle Timley.
She wants the 16-year-old to be remembered for being full of life and laughter.
"How warm he was, how funny he was, I just want everyone to know that he loved every single person down here," she said.
There will be a praise and worship service at New Hope Baptist Church in Painesville in Yorry's memory on Wednesday night at 7 pm. They also hope to raise money for the family during the service.
