Published Saturday, March 29, 2003
unites
family,
friends
to Brian Brodie
Herald Staff Writer
As evidenced by the about 100 people who came out for a candlelight vigil Friday, Brian Brodie's life touched many people.
Tiffany Holden hoped that Brodie's death also will touch people.
"I wanted to do something for the community," she said. "We need to bring our community together and stop the violence."
Brodie, 30, of 1023 Fruit Ave., Farrell, died Sunday of a gunshot wound to the head after a gunbattle outside a Youngstown club. His funeral service was held Friday.
While Youngstown police say Brodie robbed a man of a watch and money before the man retaliated with the fatal shot, Ms. Holden said she wanted to show a different side of Brodie.
"Brian was a good person and we want him to be remembered that way," Ms. Holden said.
She organized the vigil, which was held in a parking lot near his home. Family and friends shared thoughts of Brodie, prayed and sang together.
Young adults dressed casually, older adults wore their Sunday finery, and children were hoisted onto shoulders.
The wind whipped, making it difficult to keep the candles lit.
"I know the wind is blowing and it's going to be rough, but life is rough," Ms. Holden said.
"I think it was a beautiful tribute -- a nice way to send my baby home," said Brodie's mother, Debra Bowe.
She said the outpouring of condolences helped her get through the week.
"My son was a very giving person," she said. "He always was the type of person who liked to help people. If there was a need, he was there."
Ms. Bowe said she had no comment on the Youngstown police investigation.
Kim Baymon prayed thanks for Brodie's life and asked that his death not be in vain. She asked that God bless Brodie's daughter and two sons, the rest of his family, and the community.
"Stand for us in our community, Lord, as we try to stand for you," she said.
Ms. Baymon said that she did not just mean Farrell when she spoke of community.
"We want everybody to see that every life makes a difference," she said.
A man shouted out, "We're going to miss you, B."
Brodie's brother, Robert, said he felt good about the turnout, and thanked people for the support his family has received.
"He touched you all in some sort of way, so we're glad to see you all."
Robert Brodie turned around a bit of advice his brother used to give when people talked to him about their problems: "Keep your head up, It will be all right."
Ms. Holden spoke of wanting to start a community outreach organization in Brodie's name.
"We don't have to love each other but we have to like each other," she said. "We're all brothers and sisters and we have to live together."