Joe Bodine. Photo by Katherine Richter

By Mary Margaret Stewart, contributor

Joe Bodine, a 2015 Decatur High School graduate, died unexpectedly early Wednesday morning, May 25.

His sister, Lia Bodine, is a rising junior at Decatur High.

A memorial service was held in the DHS Performing Arts Center  on Sunday, May 29 at 2 p.m., where community members celebrated Joe’s life.

Many service-goers were from Decatur First United Methodist – Joe’s mom’s home parish – teachers and members of the class of 2015.

[adsanity id=27331 align=aligncenter /]

The Performing Arts Center overflowed with these attendees, and a diverse few people, influential members of Joe’s life, spoke throughout the celebration.

The speakers, including his sister Lia, Decatur teacher Cara Gray, and Jeremiah Awbrey, his best friend since preschool, reflected on Joe’s life.

A moment of silence and a group prayer followed the eulogies.

The Bodine Family asks for support through donations to the Decatur Education Foundation, designated for “a fund to address adolescent mental health and addiction resources in Decatur.”

For more information about how to donate and to read Joe’s obituary, visit the following website: http://www.asturner.com/obituary/Joseph-James-Bodine/Decatur-GA/1621846.