Flames flickered against the wind in memory of a troubled teenager outside the Power House Family Worship Center in Gainesville Monday evening.
About 40 people gathered, grasping burning white candles, listening to prayer and remembering Robert Dentmond, who was killed March 20 during a standoff with police.
They sang “This Little Light of Mine.”
Jennifer Appel, Dentmond’s stepmother, stood among the group, keeping his older sister, four younger brothers and cousin close.
Dentmond was one of seven kids. He was the oldest boy.
His younger brother, Kamarion Appel, 10, said he remembers playing video games and cards with Dentmond.
Sixteen-year-old Montrae McCray said the vigil was a great way to honor his friend. The two met playing basketball last year. They just sorta connected.
“He was a nice, kind guy,” McCray said.
Bishop Leo Robinson prayed for strength and speedy healing, hoping memories of the son, the friend, the student will live on inside those who knew him.
“We are here today to support the family, the community; to keep the unity,” he said. “To be the person, or be the church or be the family that people will look at and say, ‘someone still cares.’”
At the end of his message, Robinson asked Appel if she would like to say a few words. She shook her head.
With an “amen” the flames went out.
Source: WUFT | Krystalle Pinilla and Briana Erickson
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