Around 200 friends, family and neighbors gathered on the field at Dolores Secondary Schools Tuesday night to remember the life of Jesse “JD” Minor, a high school student killed in a car crash on Colorado Highway 184 last week.
The crash injured two other Dolores high school students, who have been reported to be in stable condition.
The hushed crowd murmured condolences to one another as they shuffled around three tables draped in purple tablecloths – Minor’s favorite color – with photos of Minor and his sports jerseys.
Organizers of the vigil asked the attendees to sign a football or basketball in memory of Minor, and leave a purple painted handprint on a quilt to give to the Minor family.
Reece Alvarez, a pastor with the Dolores High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes, gave a short message about faith and grieving the loss of Minor.
“Just talking with some of the students, Jesse had a vibrant personality,” said Alvarez. "You knew when he was in class. And you knew when he wasn't in class because of his joking and outgoing self. Boy, his impact was felt, and we're gonna feel that impact this next school year.“
After the message, the crowd formed a large circle around a Mancos marshal’s truck in the middle of the field, lit candles and prayed.
Alvarez encouraged everyone to stay and share memories of Minor for as long as they could.
Minor’s funeral is scheduled for 2 pm Saturday, July 6, at Dolores High School.
