More than 600 students at Jackson State University, including the Sonic Boom, gathered for a vigil on the Gibbs-Green Memorial Plaza on Thursday night to pay respects to the family of 20-year-old Devon Mannery, a former member of the marching band who passed away recently in a car crash.
A number of people recalled Mannery, a junior physical education major from Jackson, as a friendly presence on campus with an infectious smile. He was affectionately known as “Cujo.”
The evening consisted of prayer, singing, reflections, a balloon release and a solemn yet inspiring musical tribute by the Boom in honor of their fellow member.
Mannery’s 17-year-old brother Joshua, a senior at Murrah High School, delighted the crowd with his humorous take on growing up with Devon, describing himself as smarter and Devon as stronger. In reality, Joshua said he learned three things from his older brother: (1) how to dress, including wearing a suit; (2) how to walk into a room “as if you owned it because Devon – who acted like a third parent – had the “biggest short man complex in the world,” said Joshua to rousing laughter; and (3) how to become a leader so that he could one day run the country as president of the United States.
For now, however, Joshua said he will focus on assuming his newest role as his other siblings’ next big brother. “I have to be the backbone of the family now. It will be hard, but I know that everything I learned from Devon over the years will help make things OK. I’m sure he’s looking down from heaven right now and proud that we’re all here acknowledging him.” Speaking for the Mannery family, he told the JSU crowd “we all love you.”
Another relative, Shelia Duffy, described the vigil as “an awesome experience.” She said she wants everyone to remember the life and legacy of Devon because “he was a great young man whose family was proud of him.” Originally, she said she was dreading the upcoming weekend funeral but found solace by attending the campus event. “This night made it all worthwhile.” Furthermore, she said the presence of the Boom spoke volumes about the character of her cousin.
Kendrick Spencer, assistant vice president of JSU’s Student Affairs, said he was overjoyed with the number of people who showed up on the breezy evening.
“Anytime we lose a Tiger, it’s devastating to JSU’s family. But it’s great how students came together with strength and the power of prayer.”
It was a message reiterated by SGA President Kendall Bunch, who said this celebration shows the level of JSU’s compassion for Devon’s family. “If someone is hurt, we’re here for them. For anyone who needs us, we will continue to be there. We presented a resolution saying that Devon will forever be a part of Jackson State. Despite the sorrow, we feel a sense of joy with everyone showing up tonight.”
Jeniera Parker, a junior accounting major from Centreville, said Devon was her classmate and friend. She described him as a delightful person who touched many hearts and said the attendance at this event shows just how close he was to everybody. “Even if he just spoke to you, he left an impact, whether it was a ‘hi’ or a ‘bye.’ ” Parker said that while she recognized people are hurt they shouldn’t be discouraged or question God. “Just know that it will get better.”
Meanwhile, Joshua Mannery said he would always remember this day because he now knows that Devon made a difference in a lot of people’s lives because they considered Devon as a brother, too.
“He was as popular on JSU’s campus as he was to our family,” Joshua said.