Justin Steven Wigham

My heart goes out to the entire Wigham family.  I was so saddened to hear about Justin's death.
You are all in my prayers.

I will never forget how nice you were to me even before we knew each others names. When I dropped my books and you helped me pick them up, and then Powder Puff was so fun and you made it just a joy to come and you made me laugh everyday during that.You were just a genuinely nice guy, and I know people say that about people a lot, but in your case it was really true. You will be missed greatly, and my heart and prayers go out to your family during this time. Say hello to my buddy Garrett

I wasn't the popular girl or the pretty girl in high school. My memories of high school aren't the greatest. But there was a short time during my senior year that I had a lot of fun and didn't feel like the outcast. This was because I decided to play in the powder puff game, and all the varsity "coaches" including Justin made me feel like I belonged and treated me in kind and respect. That was the most fun I ever had in high school, so I will never forget how nice he and the other football "coaches" were to me and the other girls on the team. He was so accepting, encouraging, thoughtful, and generous with me. I wasn't shy or bashful, I was part of the team. High school can be rough for people like me, but I will never forget that Justin never judged me for how I looked or the fact that I wasn't popular. I felt popular for a very short time and I will never forget that. Thank you Justin for that. I know that you were a good, kind, caring, and genuine person. That is how I will remember you.

Justin was my eldest grandson and I had a very special bond with him. I was privileged to take care of him for his first two or three years of life. He was a wonderful baby and from a very early age he showed a special love for those around him. He was always kind and friendly to everyone. He always was a happy child with such a positive attitude. He always had a big smile on his beautiful face and a twinkle in his beautiful eyes. We had a spring horse in our backyard and he loved to ride 'em cowboy!! This amazing good nature stayed with him and will be with him in eternity. I was so proud of Justin and how well he did in school and how he excelled in every sport. Justin had a Dad, Matthew who adored him and was one of the best Dad's in the world. His pride and love for his son was so evident. Carey was such a wonderful step-mom for Justin, he loved her dearly and she was a wonderful influence in his life. My daughter, Catherine, loved her son so much, but somehow was able to make the ultimate sacrifice and allow Matthew and Carey to raise him. I thank all the Wighams for being a marvelous close, loving, supportive family for my dearest Justin. Justin had two half-sisters, Maddy and Brittany who worshiped the ground he walked on. His half-brothers, Jesse and Nick looked up to him so much. All who were fortunate enough to come into contact with Justin in his brief life are so blessed. I loved him so very much and he will always have a big spot in my heart. Rest in Peace my dear Grandson.

Looking through all the pictures of Justin over the last few days has brought back so many wonderful memories of Justin.  Justin was the best baby a mother could ask for.  He was bigger than life - literally!! (He weighed 9lbs, 11ozs when he was born.  He was the biggest baby in the nursery!)  Justin loved children and was always playing and engaging with his cousins.  He was the best role model a child could have.  He was polite, obedient and happy.  All his pictures show him with a big, happy smile!!  I loved my son more than life itself.  I am so greatful that he was raised in such a loving home with a huge extended family to watch over him. 

 

Justin was an angel, a comic, a gifted athlete, and a kind and compasionate human being.  We all lived vicariously through Justin.  He was the hope for a better future for all of us.  He had the soul and spirit of my grandfather Pappa.  When Pappa died, we all said that Pappa's soul went into Justin, because Justin loved all without judgment.  He accepted everyone for who they were and Lord knows I gave him a lot to accept!  He did it though with loving and open arms.

 

My son wrote me a letter when he first went to college, telling me how much he still needed me.  Those words will always be with me as will Justin's kind spirit.  We have a great challenge ahead of us trying to keep Justin's loving and giving spirit alive.  He is a hard act to follow.  He was one of a kind and a good man whose life was cut way too short.

 

I love you son and will never forget your smile, your strong arms that hugged me when we saw each other and your kind spirit.  Breathe life into your niece or nephew so that you can live on through those that survive you. Watch over your younger brother Nick and show him the way to greatness - the path you traveled.  Watch over all of us Justin.  You are our guardian angel my dear, sweet boy.

 

Love forever and I will see you in Heaven....Mom