VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Family and friends from all walks of life gathered at the corner of Lynnhaven Parkway and Princess Anne Road Monday night to remember 23-year-old James Beckles IV, who was hit and killed at this same intersection last Tuesday.
Those close to Beckles remembered him as a thoughtful person that could light up any room and touched dozens of lives.
“I can’t tell you how humbled I am to see such a sea of people out here just to honor my son,” James Beckles III said.
Former classmates, coworkers, teammates and friends surrounded members of Beckles’ family and his infant daughter as they shared stories of the man they say was a positive influence and role model.
“I’ve been getting phone calls, texts, people telling me how they felt about him, what kind of character he had, how they’re going to miss him,” Beckles III said, “and all that did for me is even though sad, make me feel so proud to be his father.”
Beckles was hit by a car while crossing the street on his way home from work last Tuesday night. The impact, Beckles’ father told us, knocked him out of his shoes as he was thrown several yards and killed him instantly. The driver stayed on scene. Police have not filed charges and the crash is under investigation.
A viewing for James Beckles IV will be held at Altmeyer Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 1. Beckles’ funeral will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 2 at Altmeyer Funeral Home.