Yesterday was Jessica’s funeral and I was debating if I should go or not. I did not know her or any of the Herrons so I thought it would be awkward being there. After all, I was just your average joe who was on his way home that Sunday night after getting some food to eat. The last thing I expected was seeing an accident, calling 911, then being interviewed by the police telling them everything I knew.
That incident has been on my mind all week. Monday was probably the hardest day to deal with since that’s when I found out that Jessica had passed away. Until then, I was being my hopeful self and kept thinking how everyone was going to be ok. After all that, all I could do was replay what happened that night over and over again. I really needed some closure which is why I took some time off from work and headed to the funeral yesterday afternoon.
Keep in mind that the temple was located right on Michelson and Harvard, the intersection where the accident occurred. I had to park in Palace Park and walked slowly towards the temple. Anyway, there I was standing by the intersection and it felt weird just being there. I was just watching all the people in their cars going about their daily routines probably oblivious to what happened last Sunday. The only real indications that something had happened there were the pieces of glass on the road, spray paint marking where the accident occurred, and Jessica’s memorial, which was adorned with flowers, candles, and pictures.
It was really beautiful seeing the memorial but what was more beautiful was seeing how many people Jessica’s life had touched. I can’t believe how many people were there! There were so many that I ended up in the far corner of the second floor not being able to see a thing. Being short doesn’t help either, but you know what I mean. Anyway, it didn’t matter if I couldn’t see a thing because all I had to do was listen.
It was good to know that her dad still had a sense of humor after all of this. Those stories about how Jessica landed the part of the tree when she was five, how she made friends during freshman year of high school, and how she chose to go to the unknown by going all the way to Vanderbilt made me think how she lived life to the fullest. If it’s one thing that I learned from all of this is that in life it doesn’t matter how long you live, but what you do with it. Come on, we have to keep in mind that our time here is uncertain. For all we know, tomorrow could be our last day alive. Yes these are all clichés and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen this in movies or something, but it’s something I never really took to heart. I have no show for if tomorrow was my last day. I’m 23 years old and here is this 19 year old person that has done more and accomplished more things than I have.
Anyway, I hope I don’t sound preachy or anything like that, but that’s what is in my head right now. I really have been feeling a lot better and I’m glad that tomorrow is Saturday… finally! Instead of just staying indoors all day like I normally do, I plan on spending the entire day out and having fun with life. I hope the rest of you do the same.
October 29th, 2005 at 8:54 am
Thanks for posting about the funeral. I drive by there every day to go play tennis. I was driving home at 11:00 Thursday and the funeral was at 1:00. There already were lots of cars in the parking lot. What was so sad was all the young people standing outside.
How are the family members doing? Are they still in the hospital? How are they holding up? This has to be horrible for them.
October 29th, 2005 at 11:16 am
Marty,
I’m a distant cousin of Jessica’s, but never actaually met her. Her grandmother and great-aunt were very close to all of their 1st cousins including my father. Jessica’s death is heartbreaking for the immediate and extended family. Thank you for telling us about your experience on that day and for sharing your perspective of what went on at the funeral.
Thanks for helping on that tragic day.
Steve
November 2nd, 2005 at 5:12 pm
Hey Marty,
My name is Marisa and I was Jess’s roommate at Vanderbilt. Your first hand experience of the accident gave me chills, I’m so sorry you had to be there at that moment. At the same time though, I’m glad that Jess has touched your life. She was amazing, motivated, and beautiful and I will miss her every day. I went to the memorial in Irvine on Thursday and the number of people there was far from surprising. The girl was simply amazing. Her family is doing ok. Her mom and brother were released from the hospital last Wednesday, though her father may still be there. He has been moved out of the ICU though. Thank you so much for caring as much as you have, and thanks for the kind words about Jess. Take care.
~Marisa
November 11th, 2005 at 2:56 am
dear Marty,
I cannot believe that i have found this. Jessica was my best friend, and since you were at the funeral, you know that I gave a speech. I have been visiting the family and now Jay (the dad and driver) is home and doing better. But, ever since Dana had told me about how there was an eye witness, my heart has been going out to you for having to see such a horrble tragedy. I was just searching her name when i came across this, and tears ran down my face. thank you so much for coming to the funeral service and thank you for your concern for the family.
November 19th, 2005 at 12:15 am
I have never been so touched by one life like I have been through Jessica’s and the light she was to so many people. Every moment spent with those who love her must have always been the best. Jessica must be covered in warmth and love through all those who have shed sorrowful yet deeply loving tears. I feel so blessed to have been able to see her beautiful and truly one’in a million’ smile during difficult days of my own. I will live to “walk on sunshine” because of her effervescent spirit that will always be alive and strong through those she touched. Nastaran-you are truly amazing…I love you.