Friends attend memorial service for fellow student

A memorial service was held Tuesday night on the third floor club level of Williams Stadium to honor the life of Joshua Hathaway, the 19-year-old Liberty University freshman who died Nov. 19 in a tragic event involving a Liberty emergency services officer.

The crowd held glowing candles as they listened to Scripture readings, prayed for Hathaway’s loved ones, and watched a video celebrating Hathaway’s life.

Hathaway’s two roommates each took a moment to share how he had impacted their lives. They both described him as extremely smart, funny, and generous. Examples of his kindness included helping others with their studies. Each said Hathaway was like a brother to them.

Dean of Students Keith Anderson shared a few words to remind those who were saddened by the tragedy about God’s faithfulness and the hope believers have in Christ for comfort and power over death. He said Hathaway knew the Lord and is in a better place, rejoicing in his new home with Jesus.

The Dean of Students Office staff provided music and led attendees in a beautiful singing of the classic hymn “How Great Thou Art” before Campus Pastor Dane Emerick closed the service with words of hope and a prayer.

• Students who would like to speak to a licensed professional counselor are asked to contact the Student Care Office (now Student Counseling Services) at studentcare@liberty.edu or (434) 582-2320. Counselors are available 24/7.