Jacob & Corey

Even growing up, Jake was an unstoppable force of support and positivity for those around him. I had the privilege of being in the same class as him. Watching him interact with those around him, myself included, was inspiring. His presence could brighten a room as could his laugh, but perhaps more importantly, his caring attitude and genuine giving heart really helped bring our class together in positive ways. I remember him sitting with me while I cried and worked through things I don't even recall anymore, but his support and willingness to listen and be present remains clear in my memory. We weren't the closest friends, but I do cherish the friendship we did have. 

I remember spending hours preparing one act plays, road trips to competitions, school trips to Colorado, an ill-fated but hilarious camping trip in Bastrop, the list goes on. Truthfully, I wish I had even more memories because while Jake is someone who has truly inspired me to be a better person, I wish we hadn't fallen out of touch after highschool. The life Jake has had since then has been no less spectacular or inspiring than when we spent hours in Latin class together, hiking ridgelines in Colorado, or learning stage makeup in theater class. Learning of the amazing things he's accomplished, the people he surrounded himself with, and the supporting love that is a beacon apparent in so many of these stories make me so happy and wish so much that we had had a chance to reconnect, I know it would have been a happy reunion over some of the tastiest bagels. I'm so grateful he was in my life and thankful for the friendship we had and the stories shared celebrating his life.