Vigil in Whiteville for father and son killed in double homicide

WHITEVILLE, Tenn– A family and community comes together for support during a hard time.

The families of Joe Robertson, 38, and his son, Javarrie Robertson, 13, came together for a prayer service and vigil, Thursday night.

The father and son were found shot to death last Friday in their home in Toone.

Almost one week later with tears, hugs and heavy hearts, the family and community gathered at Antioch Baptist Church in Whiteville. Javarrie or “Joe Joe” as he is lovingly called, sang in the choir.

Inside the filled church, a grieving mother was comforted by prayers, a personal testimony and short words of comfort.

“We confess Lord that we have not had good thoughts in the midst of this travesty,” said Adrienne Jones, an aunt of the victims.

“Things happen unexpectedly and they turn our lives upside down,” Pastor Jerry Chris said.

It has been an emotional day, overall. Earlier Thursday, the family came face-to-face with two of the suspects charged in the murders.

Thursday evening while surrounded by their community, the family tried to focus on their good times.

Funeral services for Joe and Javarrie will be held Saturday.