Community shows support for baby found in recycling

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Around 200 people came in person for the funeral services for a baby boy found at a recycling plant earlier this month.

As police continue to look for answers and search for the parents, the community has come together. Miller Funeral Home and a non-profit called the Oaklyn Foundation organized the funeral.

Not knowing how many people would come, Miller Funeral Home prepared for a crowd, hoping the community would attend.

And it did, at the 10:30 a.m. start time people were still lined up to get in. They filled the chapel and an overflow room. People from all walks of life came to show their love for an innocent life that ended too soon, including several mothers with their young babies.

One can only hope the pure joy of this smile represents Gabriel’s little face from the tenderness and support he’s been shown on this day. Some left toys, notes, and cards, hoping the sentiments written down would reach Gabriel.

During the service, there was music, prayers, and words of comfort from three pastors, including Travis Remme.

“This is so cool to just sit here and see this place full of people,” said Remme. “There’s people over here in the overflow, cameras, and just lots of attention here for Gabriel. What a cool thing. On August 6th, he had no one, and look at the family he has now.”

Father John Helmueler asked the crowd to pray for Gabriel James and his parents, wherever they were.

After the services in the chapel, Sioux Falls police officers led the procession to Hills of Rest Cemetery. It was a line of cars worthy of a dignitary, led by a little boy with the power to generate love and respect.

“To Gabriel, this world was a pretty mean place, but for all of you here today, you are shining your light for Gabriel,” said Pastor Remme. “There’s no more pain, no more hurting, no more abandonment no more anything holding Gabriel back. It’s up to all of us here to make sure that his name is said out loud and that he’s not forgotten about after today. It’s up to all of us.”

Along with the 200 people who attended the service, another 170 watched the service online.
Everyone is encouraged to seek out and visit the grave site at Hills of Rest Cemetery.

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