Family, friends hold candlelight vigil for James Rivers

JACKSON, Tenn. — Friends and family of James Rivers gathered Tuesday evening with candles lit in memory of his life.

“I thank everybody for coming out,” said Tanya Rivers, mother of James Rivers. “This is why I ain’t crying, because ya’ll are out here.”

Rivers was accidentally shot by a family member on Feb. 18. Due to his severe injuries, his mother took him off life support Feb. 21.

His loved ones stood together at a local park in east Jackson to reflect on Rivers’ life, but also to celebrate it.

“By him doing his music, people really like his music,” his mother said.

Rivers said her son was a young rapper. Most of his friends from high school sang his songs following the vigil.

“There was never a day he wasn’t rapping. James was smart, very respectful, his smile, his laugh, he was real goofy,” James’ friends and family said.

His mother said knowing how many people loved James helps her move forward along with her family.

“I’m gonna be OK, and in my heart, James is OK,” Rivers said.

Memorial services for James Rivers will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the New St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church.