Tia Mumma said everybody in the Northwestern community knows everybody and it was a privilege to be part of his support system. Brenda “Bobbie” Williams Funderburg encouraged those not attending the funeral to line North Hampton’s streets.
“We’ve been a part of it for so long,” Funderburg said.
Several of Fitzsimmons’ classmates were among the group. Khloe Conley left a note in his coffin at the memorial viewing and wanted to make him smile, so she drew pictures on her sign of them dressed as SpongeBob SquarePants and Squidward.
It was also a chance for Khloe and mom Jamie Summers to discuss a difficult topic.
“When I told her about Barrett, I heard her say under her breath ‘why.’ We talked, and I reassured her he’s running with angels now,” Summers said.
Corbin Elliott recalled playing tag at recess and getting Fitzimmons candy corn, his favorite snack.
Reese Carter didn’t have much to say about his friend. He didn’t have to, as a sign he designed himself said it all: “Good Bye Buddy I will always be Barrett Strong.”
Many of the crowd traded memories of Fitzsimmons and his life, good days and bad. That’s what most said they’d take away after processional passed.
“He brought the entire Clark County community together whether you knew him or not,” said Annie Carter.
For more about Barrett Fitzsimmons and memories of him, go online to a page on Facebook. On Facebook, search “Barrett Strong!”
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