Mourners were forced to stand in the sanctuary because all seats at
the church were filled with Otey's family and friends. Eyes were drawn to
the blue casket draped with blue and white flowers - Princeton Tigers'
colors - that sat in the front of the sanctuary. Members of the Princeton
High School football and basketball teams were on hand to see their friend
and teammate laid to rest. Many of them wore white shirts and blue
ties.
The service began with a hymn by the Princeton High School Madrigals, a
group in which Otey sang. Those attending the funeral were then greeted by
Dr. David W. Dockery, pastor of the Princeton church Otey attended.
"Gather here not to think about his passing but to celebrate his life,"
Dockery said. "Tanner is more alive today then he's ever been, for he is
with the Lord."
"Tanner died of an enlarged heart, a problem that we didn't know
about," he said. "But Tanner had a big heart and we all knew that." The
service continued when Craig Stout, a member of the church, read from the
scripture. Stout also reminisced about Otey, mentioning his more playful
side and calling Otey a "fierce competitor and ministering believer."
Stout worked with grieving members of the community after the
15-year-olds death.
"Many of us were angry ," Stout said. "We needed an answer."
"Where was God last Tuesday night?" he said. "He was holding our
hand."
Earl Davis performed a solo of Amazing Grace during which some
attending the service gave into their emotions, started crying and left
the sanctuary.
Stout and five of Otey's friends also shared their memories. They
recalled him as a young man who loved pets, cars and video games.
Amanda Bowlick performed and Dockery gave a parting message. The
congregation then sang a hymn after which the Madrigals performed, "The
Lord Bless and Keep You." The services ended and Otey was taken to
Roselawn Cemetery in
Princeton.
