MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Jeffrey Wilson was remembered by hundreds at a celebration of life gathering Thursday at Bayside Church in Manatee County.
What You Need To Know
- Jeffrey Wilson was hit while on a crosswalk in St. Petersburg in early June
- He died at a local hospital; his wife is still recovering
- Hundreds gathered Thursday to remember the beloved teacher
Wilson, a highly respected teacher at Freedom Elementary School, and his wife were struck by a vehicle while walking in a crosswalk in St. Petersburg in June.
Wilson died from his injuries two days later. His wife continues to recover.
The celebration of life drew a huge crowd, which those in attendance say is a testament to how loved Wilson was by his students, co-workers and friends.
Samantha Johnson had Wilson as a teacher when she was a child and went to school with his children. She says everyone saw him as the cool teacher.
"Every single person who knew him didn't just know him, they loved him," she said.
Jessica Esposito was also in attendance at the celebration, she said her kids go to Freedom Elementary.
"He was definitely the heart and soul of our school," Esposito said.
