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Remember his name - James Slater
It's now been almost two days since I received the news about the death of my friend Jimmy - or James Slater as the community has become to know him. I've gone through a series of emotions and it still doesn't feel real to me.
The family was originally concerned that Jimmy would be counted as just another Rochester homicide victim. The media has portrayed Jimmy in a very positive light and for that the family is grateful. Actually, on WDKX's Memory Lane this morning, while talking to the Pastor of Baber AME Church, Rev. Marlowe Washington, Andre Marcel stated on several occasions that Jimmy wasn't only victim number 41, his name was James Slater. A person, a son, a brother, a father, an uncle, a community servant and a friend to many.
I've spent the last few days with the family, who served as my family for many years as I grew up and it brought back so many memories of Jimmy. I remember when Jimmy's Aunt Marie used to do my hair which I hated. I would scream and cry whenever she would comb it. Jimmy would always go outside until she was done. He hated to see anyone in pain. He always told me how pretty I looked when she was done. Of course, I loved that! I remember Jimmy's best friend, his dog Bullet. Jimmy loved that dog and the dog loved Jimmy. He would spend hours in the yard with his dog. I can go on and on about the many years I spent growing up across the street from the Slater's, but I will stop here.
There have been numerous dignitaries, clergy, elected officials, law enforcement officers, etc. visiting over the last couple of days. The family is very appreciative for all of the support, coverage, rallies and press. The funeral will be this Friday. Will you continue to come after the service? Will you continue to write about it in the paper and report about it on the news? Will there be more police busts in the neighborhood that this tragedy occurred, like the one that happened 15 minutes before the scheduled rally yesterday? I hope that was just a coincidence and not something that was orchestrated by the Rochester City Police Department.
The Dean's List will be taking a break until Monday. At that time, I will go into a little more detail about what needs to be done, who is responsible and what sacrifices need to be made by all. Right now, I want to remember Jimmy.
Please keep Jimmy's family in your thoughts and prayers - Mrs. Lacey Slater, mother, Jamel, son, Rochelle & Gloria, sisters, Tunisia "Nikki", niece, Jaymes Brandis, great-nephew and special friend, Audrey.
Services are as follows:
Public Viewing
Thursday, October 11, 2007
12:00 Noon - 8:00 PM
Baber AME Church
550 Meigs Street
Rochester, NY 14607
Funeral
Friday, October 12, 2007
11:00 AM
Baber AME Church
550 Meigs Street
Rochester, NY 14607
You can write to The Dean's List with your thoughts and comments at: TheDeansList1@gmail.com.
