Tragic Loss of 16-Year-Old Shytez Jackson in Car Accident | Local News

One of the two teenagers killed in a car crash in McMinn County on April 26 has been laid to rest.

Family and friends of 16-year-old Shytez Jackson gathered Saturday at First Baptist Church in Cleveland for a celebration of life.

“I mean, it’s really just day by day, in a situation like this there’s really no – give me a second,” said Patrick Dyer, Jackson’s god-uncle.

Patrick Dyer, like many others at Saturday’s service, struggled to contain his emotions.

“Just his smile, his laugh, he brought joy to everyone, he was a really great kid and it’s just tragic that we lost him so young,” Dyer said.

Dyer says Jackson’s optimistic attitude was apparent to everyone who knew him.

“I remember I could tell you about football, brother was funny, that’s all I can tell you, he was a really funny person,” said Jackson’s friend Keyshawn Robinson.

Keyshawn Robinson said he grew up with Jackson and played football with him since they were 6 years old.

Tommie Dean said Jackson was his child’s uncle and considered him his own brother.

“He had a good heart, but we had to keep persevering. I mean, we still have to live today, we have kids, grandkids, everyone still has to make it,” said Tommie Dean.

Following the ceremony, Jackson was buried at Fort Hill Cemetery.

His family says he will be remembered for his love of football, his sense of humor, his big heart and his infectious smile.

“We have lost someone dear to all of us and we ask everyone to keep his mother and his brothers and sisters in their prayers,” Dyer said.