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Justin O'Keefe Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Justin O'Keefe
J. Stubbs
March 4, 2025
As a former classmate of Justin's, I was saddened to hear of his passing. Justin was one of my favorite classmates at Highland's Christian Academy (HCA). Proof is I am still thinking about him in 2025. I only wish I got to reconnect with him later in life as adults. Rest easy my friend. Deepest condolences to his family. God bless.
Lisa Janssen Carlson
July 26, 2016
So much of my younger years were spent with Justin and Natalie. Lorri and I spent what seemed like more nights at the O'Keefe home than our own. Justin was always willing to be part of our crazy schemes, endless performances, and neighborhood adventures. Justin was always up for a challenge and pushed us harder. I remember climbing to the very top of pine trees, walking the chain link fence around the perimeter of our homes as far as balance would allow us and spending more time on top of rooftops than was probably safe - all because of our competition with one another. I saw first hand the love Justin's family has for him and the depth that Nat would go to both torture him and protect him. I'm so sad for your family and for your loss. I wish our lives had not taken different paths and that I had gotten to know the amazing man that Justin has grown up to be. Wishing you healing hearts and endless memories, so very sorry for your loss.
Alissa Williams- Bryan
July 26, 2016
It is unfortunate I did not get to know Justin as an adult. I love reading the descriptions given of the man Justin had grown to be.
My memories of Justin are from good ole' HCA! He was was of the best basketball players and I loved watching and cheering for his games. I also loved having classes with him. Oh my - talk about funny!!! Definitely comic relief from 5th grade algebra.
One of my favorite memories was the night Natalie won homecoming queen. I will never forget glancing over at her after she won and seeing her and Justin cry and hold each other. He was so proud of her and for her. They had such a special bond- and showed it for all the world to see!
Lincoln Grafals
July 26, 2016
Uncle Gus, Never Give up! Love you Uncle Gus!
Cash Grafals
July 26, 2016
Uncle Gus, I love you so much! Uncle Gus, you are my Best Friend!
Nathan Cook
July 26, 2016
Justin,
Thanks for all the fun memories in our younger years. From dunking on 8 foot rims outside during recess to having fun during lunch with all the guys. Since I had glasses I was not the ladies man and I had to ride your coat tails t talk with the ladies thanks. I know you are in a better place where there is no pain so I am not sad and I have a smile on my face. See you in a few years on the court in the sky.
Natalie Grafals
July 26, 2016
When I look out at all of you who came today it touches my heart because I know Gus had a lasting impression on all of you! I know you join me in my loss because you lost him too! Please excuse me as I am not able to talk about Gus in the past tense, as I know he is right here beside me at this very moment. When I reflect on the 39 years I had with my sweet bubba, it brings me joy! Gus was my best bubba! We did everything together growing up...Riding bikes, playing in my playhouse & your jedi fort outside with all of our neighborhood friends & cousins, climbing trees, kickball with Uncle Gene & cousins, trips to TN with Grandma, Aunt Donna & cousins, Easter egg hunts, Christmas parties but my favorite thing to do was watch Gus shine on the basketball court! He was a shining star then & a shining star now! He told me a few weeks before he went to be with the Lord..."It's crazy how we can look at each other and know what the other one is thinking without saying a word", today I feel him with me, without saying a word! Justin is many things: A Faithful Friend, A Loving Husband, the Best Uncle that Cash & Lincoln could have ever hoped to have, he is a son that made his parents proud and He is the Best Brother & Friend! I am so Thankful for the Gift God has given me in Him, all of these years! My only wish is that God would not haven taken him so soon. My only comfort now is knowing that Gus is perfect now & watching over all of us ever day. He is the toughest, bravest Warrior I will ever know....minus being petrified of snakes, lizards, crying at every Rocky movie & every sports documentary. Gus is a fighter & He never gave up! Even when Gus was feeling so terrible, he always had a smile for us, a thumbs up or a compliment to out Mom...telling her she was the Best! I will never forget you my sweet bubba Gus, you will be in my heart until my last breath and I can't wait for the day that I will see you again! Before I close I want to read this poem & it feels like Gus is saying this today.....
A limb has fallen from our family tree;
I keep hearing a voice that says grieve not for me.
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song;
The good life I loved when I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I am counting on you;
Keep smiling & surely the sun will shine thru.
My mind is at ease & my soul is at rest;
Remembering all how truly I was blessed.
Continue traditions no matter how small;
Go on with your life don't worry about falls.
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin;
Until the day comes when we are together again.
You are the best bubba in the whole wide world! Rest my sweet bubba! I LOVE YOU!
Tracy
July 26, 2016
Justin ,
You left a legacy behind and inspired many including myself. Everytime I look at the picture On my wall that you drew, will remind me of your kindness and what a loving a generous person you were. May your soul forever rest in peace . We Love you Justin
#teamjustinforever#cancersucks
Freddy Grafals
July 26, 2016
Gus, from the first time I saw you in school, I knew I wanted to be friends with you! You were always, laughing, smiling and joking around! After our first conversation we instantly became friends! You brought me, the younger kid, into your circle of friends & treated me like a brother! We were brothers way back then and brothers & best friends 24 years later! I can't wait to tell Cash & Lincoln that their Uncle Gus was a real life superman and he would do anything to help his family, friends, neighbors and perfect strangers! What an example you have set for me and the boys! You were always willing to help others even when your own safety was at risk......the time when you chased down the purse thief at the bank, the time when you chased the car thief thru the neighborhood at night or when you would try & stop a fight on the side of the road if you saw someone was being hurt! I think of you every day & miss so many things... you being on neighborhood watch, getting phone calls or texts about funny commercials, listening to music, making cd's for hours, playing Rock Band, hitting the clubs.....watching people gather in a circle to watch you bust a move, watching you fly the boys like superman, your knock at the front door, your laugh and your beast mentality! Two weeks before you passed away you looked at me & said..."Fred, I'm still fightin" and gave me a thumbs up! I will never forget that, even at your weakest, you never complained & never gave up! Your courage, strength and bravery has changed me! Your relationship with God grew stronger thru all of this & I am working on strengthing my relationship with God because of you! Thank you so much for that! Until we meet again....I will be listening to your mix CD's, practicing my dance moves so we can battle it out on the Streets of Gold! Love you forever bro!
Justin doing his favorite passtime.
Brian Watson
July 26, 2016
We have been reflecting on our time we spent with Justin and there are a few qualities about him that I would like to share
Justin was Sensitive
I used to tease him sometimes and tell him he was too sensitive. Being sensitive to how his family and friends were feeling around him was part of his core self. It was part of what made him tick. He could not turn it off or dial it down even if he tried. Whether he was describing a movie or TV show or even seeing a homeless person walking down the street I would often hear him start his sentence with "aww" because he immediately felt for the person. Knowing how important the feelings of others was to him now makes me question if there is such a thing as too sensitive.
He was Compassionate and thoughtful
His compassion was intertwined with this sensitivity. Most people can certainly learn to pick up on how others are feeling but Not only did he feel what others felt quite literally, but he wanted to do something about it. Even while his health started to decline, he wanted to help. Recently when his grandmother hurt her hip and had to spend a lot of time in bed recovering, he would come to see her or call her everyday to do devotions with her because he knew it made her feel good and that was all that mattered to him.
He was very Strong
In the literal sense. Before he became ill, he was a power house. He could run for hours. He used to tell me about his workout routines that included 1500 crunches while holding a medicine ball. That hurts me just thinking about it.
Justin was very quick witted and funny
Justin never met a stranger. He was comfortable talking one on one with anybody. His personality was magnetic and you just wanted to be around him. He would sometimes call me in the middle of the day or even come by our house just to tell me a joke. I know now that he just loved to hear my reaction. He was always quick with a little pun here and there or an elongated "Reeelaax" just to make sure things never got too serious. Even when he was disagreeing with you he would turn his head slightly looking away and sing his disagreement just to make light of it.
He was Full of faith
What can I say but that boy loved Jesus. He would gladly tell you all about it if you wanted to listen. Even when he was at his worst points in his illness, he would attempt to witness with all the nurses and doctors that were caring for him. He would even shout to the people passing in the hallway "Never give up "
He liked Simple
Not simple in the mind because that young man had the memory of an elephant. He remembered EVERYTHING. He could recall the stats for any NBA, NFL, or PGA player at the shear mention of their name. He loved the simple things in life. He loved his home. He loved his truck. He loved his wife. He did not long to be rich or have a big house. Money was never a big deal to him. He would gladly give you his last dollar if he knew it would put a smile on your face. He loved home and his home was the small house he grew up in. He didn't love the house itself as much as he loved what it represented to him. It was familiar to him, it represented his mother and his sister, his father (both of them) and it was in the perfect location in his eyes. It was close to his family. Most of his family, aunt's uncles, cousins, and grand parents were all only a few minutes away and he loved that. He was a home body. Of course he liked to go to places once in a while like Naples with his wife for a quick weekend getaway or even as far away as Tennessee (but only if his family were there). But, when it came to where he was most happy and most comfortable, it was his home right here in Pompano.
Justin was Genuine
He was diplomatic but not pretentious. His respect for others was always evident in his actions and his words. He had a true southern mannerism about him. When he had a conversation with you, he genuinely listened and would recall what you said the next time you saw him. "His story" in a conversation was always second to yours and that naturally made you feel important. He never had to work at that. It just came naturally.
Jacey Chick
July 26, 2016
Just,
Some of my fondest childhood memories are of our summers in Tn! So much fun...Fishing, dock tag and hide and go seek. Going to Opryland was also a highlight of the summer and I'm thankful to have those memories. I had a blast with you at Natty and Freds wedding...Man did you have some dance moves! A night I'll never forget! I sure wish we could have done some of that fishing you wanted to do...I'll bet you're fishin now and I bet it's amazing! With a Big heart, great smile, Handsome looks and awesome sense of humor you made it so easy for people to Love you! I will Miss you Always and Love you Forever! Give my Daddy a Kiss for me Heaven has got to be Beautiful...It has some amazing Angels up there!
Love you Just!
❤❤❤❤
November 2015
Natalie Grafals
July 26, 2016
When I look out at all of you who came today it touches my heart because I know Gus had a lasting impression on all of you! I know you join me in my loss because you lost him too! Please excuse me as I am not able to talk about Gus in the past tense, as I know he his right here beside me at this very moment! When I reflect in the 39 years I had with my sweet bubba, it brings me Joy! Gus was my best bubba! We did everything together growing up.....riding bikes, playing outside with all of our neighborhood friends & cousins....in my playhouse & in Gus's Jedi fort, climbing trees, kickball with our Uncle Gene & cousins, trips to TN with our Aunt Donna, Grandma & cousins, Easter egg hunts, Christmas Parties, but my favorite thing to do was to watch Gus shine on the basketball court! He was a shining star then & a shining star now! He told me a few weeks before he went to be with the Lord....."It's crazy how we can look at each other & know what the other one is thinking without saying a word". Today I feel him with me....without saying a word! Justin is many things, He is a Faithful Friend, a Loving Husband, the Best Uncle Lincoln & Cash could have ever hoped to have, He is a Son that made his parents proud, he is the Best Brother & friend and I am so Thankful to the Gift God has given me in him all of these years! My only wish is that God would not have taken him so soon. My only comfort now is knowing that Gus is perfect now & watching over all of us every day. He is the toughest, bravest Warrior I will ever know....minus being petrified of snakes, lizards, crying at every Rocky movie & crying at every sports documentary. Gus is a fighter & He never gave up! Even when Gus was feeling so terrible, He always had a smile for us, a thumbs up or a complement to our Mom, telling her she was the Best! I will never forget you my sweet bubba Gus! You will be in my heart until my last breath and I can't wait for the day when I will see you again! I LOVE YOU! Before I close I want to read this poem and it feels like Gus is saying this to us today...A limb has fallen from our family tree; I keep hearing a voice that says grieve not for me. Remember the best times, the laughter, the song; The Good life I loved when I was strong. Continue my heritage, I am counting on you; Keep smiling & surely the sun will shine thru. My mind is at ease and my soul is at rest; Remembering all how truly I was blessed. Continue traditions no matter how small; Go on with your life don't worry about falls. I miss you all dearly so keep up your chin until the day comes when we are together again!
You are the best bubba in the whole, wide world! I miss you so much already, Rest my sweet bubba!
Jared Williams
July 25, 2016
I have been thinking a lot about life lately since my buddy, my pal, my cousin Justin has gone to be with Jesus. I have never had a brother but he was the closest thing I had to one. I looked up to him being 6 years older than me, and wanted to be just like my witty, funny, loving cousin Gus. Plus he always had the latest Jordan's. I will never forget him getting out of my car at Beach Mountain, NC to ask the patron where the chair lift was, he slipped on the black ice which he was so cautious of the entire time I drove. He fell so hard on his butt and McGreevey and I were in my car losing it and he couldn't help but laugh! Gus never cared much about money as long as he had his family and he wasn't sleeping on the streets, he was good. He taught me not to live to work but work to live! I know he is walking around heaven with many jewels in his crown for all the good things he did for others on this earth. Like when he saved my life from a colony of Yellow Jackets that were under the steps for the rope swing at Aunt Peggy's in SC. I was getting nailed left and right on my legs and butt, he carried me out of the woods like a Marine. I thank him for that. We are here and gone way too quick my friend. I love you brother and I will be thinking of you every day until we are together again. I wish heaven had visiting hours. Just in case God doesn't have soft batch cookies, I will bring a pallet of them up for us.
Aja Jacobson
July 25, 2016
Justin, the first time Tanner brought me home to meet everyone I was really nervous and worried about making a good impression and everything. And when I met you, you gave me this big hug like you'd known me for years and told me not to be nervous, that I was family now. And you really did make me feel like family. Thank you for that. It really meant the world to me.
You are a strong, loving, and kindhearted person and you had this amazing talent for spreading light wherever you went. You were always so concerned about everyone and making everyone around you feel loved and appreciated. You were even the first in line to grab a slice of pumpkin cake even though Tanner and I had confessed to thinking we might have burnt it a little. You're an incredible person and I miss your hugs, your support, your jokes, and your stories. I love you!
Tanner Watson
July 25, 2016
Justin always used to tell me "if anybody ever gives you any trouble, you let me know and I'll kick their butt!" He was always concerned if I was okay, being bullied when I was in school and making good friends. He never once left or hung up the phone without saying "I love ya, bud." Even when he was sick, he'd always tell me not to worry about him. He was so excited when I told him I wanted to learn to play basketball like him and he took time out of his weekend to run drills with me and teach me how to shoot. Justin IS the best older brother I, or anyone else, could have ever asked for. I love you, Gus.
Ceci Moskot
July 13, 2016
Brian - I just heard about your loss. I'm so, so sorry. I know that your son had a long battle and that your family went through a very difficult time. I wish I had heard sooner as I would have attended the services. My thoughts are with you and your family. Your son looked like a truly great guy. My deepest sympathy.
Lexie & Joe Joe Millsaps
July 13, 2016
Our sweet Justin our " Shing Ping". I will never forget all the good times we all shared! Your love for music and your slick dance moves, the ways you cared and loved us all. The way you & Natalie and your family make us feel as though we are a part of your family! Your amazing bond with your sister... You 2 had your own language! Your quick witty jokes and banter with Joe Joe and all of our friends! Funniest times ever... hands down! Your strength, genuinity, depth, love, loyalty, humor & passion! Some of the greatest memories in our lives! I will forever cherish our friendship and am so grateful for you! Words can't describe how much we miss you. We love you dude!! Rest in Peace my sweet friend! All my love to you and your family.
"Family"
Tina O'keefe
July 11, 2016
A STEPFATHER means so many things
An understanding & loving heart,
A source of strength and support right from the start
A constant readiness to help
In a kind and thoughtful way
With encouragement and forgiveness
No matter what comes your way.
A special generosity and always affection, too
A STEPFATHER means so many things when
He's a man like you Justin!!!!!!
We miss and love you dearly.
Your devoted wife and step kids Tyler & Amanda.
Nicole Coppock
July 10, 2016
Justin we will continue to carry on your legacy by making sure we never give up.... continue to watch over us... we love you and will never forget all the fun memories we made... so thankful for the times we shared. Love you always and forever.. god bless you and the entire family and extended... love cole..
Justin: You are my HERO, my BEST FRIEND and my SUPERMAN!!! I love you always, Your Wife Tina.
Tina O'Keefe
July 9, 2016
Tina O'keefe
July 7, 2016
You wrote poems to me all the time here is one from me to you:
Happy Anniversary!!!!!!!!!! ..
When god was making husbands as far as I can see, he made a special soul mate especially for me, he made a perfect gentleman, compassionate and kind, with more love and affection than you could ever wish to find, He gave you a heart of gold, and you gave me wonderful memories my heart can hold. You were someone I could talk to that no one can replace; you were someone I could laugh with till tears ran down my face. Next time we meet we will be at heaven's door, when I see you standing there I won't cry anymore, I will put my arms around you and kiss your smiling face, then the pieces of my broken heart will fall back into place. Loving you forever.
Your wife
Mick Moreman
July 1, 2016
Brian and family, please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of your son Justin. I cannot imagine the heartbreak you must be going through.
Me and my mighty warrior!
Denise Watson
June 30, 2016
My precious Justin.....There are no words that can express how much I love you, or how much I'll miss you. You always had such a sweet and loving disposition that drew people to you. An affection for your family was always demonstrated freely and included lots of hugs, kisses, and "I love you's." Tender hearted and sensitive are words that I always think of to describe you. You never wanted anyone to be sad or hurting.....and hated seeing anyone cry. You laughed easily and cried easily, a beautiful gift. I will miss your fun loving spirit and the way you made us all laugh sometimes without even trying. You were just a naturally funny guy, and you brought life to a room. You were grateful and appreciative always for the love of your family and friends. On days when you weren't feeling well and in pain...I would say "I wish I could trade places with you." You'd say "No Mom.......I love you too much." You were a kind, sweet, loving soul to everyone and never met a stranger, always making it a point to make eye contact and say hello to whoever crossed your path. You had a wonderful ability to make someone feel like they had known you all your life. People were often surprised by your manners, as though they weren't expected anymore. Yes ma'am and no ma'am were part of your vocabulary, as well as abundant thank you's......always the gentleman. I'm so grateful that you were blessed with such a loving sister in Natalie. You had the love of Tanner, Jacob and Jesse......but Nat would do absolutely anything for you. I think back to when you and Natalie were younger, and I remember how hard you fought with each other and how hard you loved each other. Even if you went to bed fighting, I'd go in Natalie's room the next morning to wake her up for school and there you were.....all cuddled up next to her. The two of you had a bond like no other. You had a lot of the same friends, and when the two of you moved into a house together it became the gathering place. Also known as the party house. I remember lots of shenanigans happening there. You were loving, and living your life to its fullest. I'm so glad the two of you shared so many happy memories. When you first got diagnosed you said to me......"I'm not ready to go, I still have things to do." And you did them.....you shared your Christian faith generously, loved selflessly, showed us how to be tough, brave and courageous, and you showed us the rewards of being kind and thoughtful to others no matter who they are or where they come from. But most of all....taught us to never give up. You made a lasting impression on every life you touched, and on everyone that came today to celebrate yours. Thank you all for loving my son. He didn't live in a mansion or drive a fancy car, but he was rich in all the ways that counted. I'm so proud of him, and I hope he knows how deeply he is loved. In answer to the question "What would you like to be remembered for?" Justin wrote...."That I was unselfish and loved my life. That I never lost faith in God even after all I've been through. That I was tough, and God gave me every bit of strength I have, and he has a place for me in heaven." I will miss your gentle presence, sweet smile, big hugs, and "I love you Mom" for the rest of my life. I'll see you again my sweetie......I know you're playing golf, shooting basketballs and enjoying the best barbecue in heaven.
Holly and Cisco Aragon
June 30, 2016
At least 3 times a week, I would find myself standing in line next to Justin at our favorite coffee shop, Dandee Donuts. The funny thing was, everyone greeted him by name, already knew what he wanted, and he genuinely would answer them by name and sometimes hugs. One day I said to him I've been coming here just like you and I still have to tell them how I want my coffee. He smiled at me and I quickly said, it's that smile, know I now why. He laughed and told me they couldn't forget someone as good looking as me and then he introduced me to one of the waitresses. I just laughed and when I got to the car realized how powerful positive people are in your life. Denise, I've always said you are one of the nicest persons I know, and Justin is your Legacy. He made the world a better place to live in and I'm sure he is doing the same above. You and Brian have an amazing family and Cisco, Alex and myself are so blessed to have you in ours.
Calynne Pridemore
June 30, 2016
You're life was truly a blessing to all of us, Justin. You were the toughest fighter and strongest person I've ever known. So many memories and traditions that our family shared with you that I will never forget. I love you Gus, you are forever in our hearts!
Alex Aragon
June 29, 2016
One of the fondest moments I shared with Justin was during a round of golf I played with him one summer in Tennessee. Through his line drives and my mulligans, we were able to share stories, memories and life lessons. One recurring theme throughout our conversation was the fact that he clearly had so much love for his family and friends. The way he cared for those close to him has resonated with me over the past few years.
During this period of bereavement, my thoughts and prayers go out to Justin's family, friends and to the many others who were touched by his affection. You will be sincerely missed Justin.
Kenny Stolar
June 29, 2016
Although I never met Justin, hearing and reading of his life I see that he was a true blessing to his family and friends. My heartfelt sympathy to the family and prayers of comfort.
Will and Noel Cheshire
June 28, 2016
We were so sorry to hear of Justin's passing. Although we didn't know Justin, he meant a lot to so many....a bright light and precious young man.
Will and Noel Cheshire
June 28, 2016
We were so sorry to hear of Justin's passing. Although we didn't know Justin, he meant a lot to so many....a bright light and precious young man.
Will and Noel Cheshire
June 28, 2016
We were so sorry to hear of Justin's passing. Although we didn't know Justin, he meant a lot to so many....a bright light and precious young man.
Will and Noel Cheshire
June 28, 2016
We were so sorry to hear of Justin's passing. Although we didn't know Justin, he meant a lot to so many....a bright light and precious young man.
Phil Humber
June 28, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with Denise and Brian and the entire Pridemore family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Phil and Sarah Humber and family.
Ivan Gastaldo
June 28, 2016
I only met Justin once, but I immediately recognized a fun & down to earth young man, full of life and love for his family and friends.
Justin is not gone... He lives within each and every one of us, and his memories will not only keep us company, but will keep him alive for as long as we live.
Our deepest & most heartfelt condolences,
With Love, Ivan & Ana Gastaldo.
James Rock
June 27, 2016
To my friend Lappy, where to start buddy. The first time we met at HCA. My dad told me when I was young that when I finished high school that all the friends I would have you would be able to count on one hand. I thought he was crazy, but it was so true! You were one of those friends. We had a lot of good times and bad ones, but at the end of the day everything was good as it was Always! I appreciate and cherish all the laughs and tears we shared. The one thing I loved about you was I could tell you some bad news and you would always find the good in it. No matter what! I will always remember the party at O'keefe's, especially the Christmas parties! I want to thank you for showing me how important family and friends are. I know right now you are looking down and smiling back. I just want to let you know I will always love you buddy. You are one of those Special people that always makes a day shine even through the rainy days! I Love You Lappy like you where the Brother I wish I had! Love Always, Your Buddy, Rock
Alex Suarez
June 27, 2016
I'll never forget after Fred and Nat got married Justin came to me and said "I love you brother, that's what we are now, brothers." I don't know if he realized just how much that meant to me. Justin came to work with us and I will be forever grateful to God for allowing that to happen. There were many days it was just Justin and I working together. During that time we finally got to build that brother bond and I realize just how lucky I was to have that time with him. We even made up our own cartoon with characters and some hilarious story lines. He always raved about his chicken philly with just cheese and wine sauce from the sub shop and that I had to try it. One day he pulled up in front of the house, sub in hand..... "Here you go bro you gotta try it!" This was after he was already sick. That's the kind of man he was and will always be remembered - selfless and making sure he could try to put a smile on everyone's face. Justin, you will always be my other brother, you had more of a impact on me than you will ever know. Until I see you again in Heaven, I love you brother!
Aaron, Sheryl and the Fong family
June 27, 2016
Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Tina and To Justins entire family. He will be greatly missed.
Gene, Karen, Donna & Paul
June 27, 2016
This poem was written by Gene for our sister Denise from her brothers and sisters, we love you.
Gene, Karen, Donna and Paul
What a happy day it was
When you brought home
Our little guy
This sad day is not fair
We cry and ask why
You were there for his
First breath and there for his last
You and he were one
You knew what he needed
Never did he have to ask
From him never were
You far away
A perfect Mom then
And a perfect Mom
To this day
Our team was mighty
In his time of need
Our team now will help others
To this we agreed
Our buddy is safe
In the hands of the Lord
What a happy day it will be
When we see him once more
We hope we are there
When at first he sees you
To see his big smile
And to hear him say
"I love you"
Janet and Garry Rolen
June 26, 2016
We didn't have the pleasure of knowing Justin, but we do know his mom and Brian. Justin was loved and will forever be loved by two wonderful people. Our heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
Brooke Rock
June 26, 2016
I love you so much Uncle Gus.
Sheryl Fong
June 26, 2016
Justin, from the first time we met you, you were always smiling and kind. We knew you were a great guy and that you would make my sister happy. You guys were not married very long but I know you shared a lifetime of love in that time. We were so proud to call you our brother in law and we will miss you GREATLY and NEVER forget you!!!
Todd Martin Bergman
June 26, 2016
Dear Justin's family and friends,
My deepest condolences to you all. It has been years since I have seen Justin, but when I heard the tragic news from Mike and Erica Palmer many memories from years ago came flooding back.
I remember Justin fondly. Always full of life and character, when ever we went out on the town. And those huge gigantic white 'Jackie O' sunglasses he'd wear, day or night were always a hit. Lol.
I'm so very sorry this world has lost such a great, fun-loving guy. Thinking of you all during this time.
Todd Martin Bergman.
Ed Hardy
June 26, 2016
Our deepest condolences to the entire Pridemore family. May you find peace in the fact that Jesus has healed Justin completely.
Ed and Cheryl Hardy
Patrick Family
June 26, 2016
We Love you Justin and you will truly be missed. "No more pain, no more sorrow." Now you truly live in peace. Till we see you again our sweet cousin.
Love,
Kyle, Stephanie, Cambria, and Ambellina Patrick
Robert Reynolds
June 26, 2016
Justin, the world is a little dimmer now and heaven is so much brighter. You became a man that all men should aspire to emulate and learn from. I so regret the distance between us that got in the way of a better relationship but will one day see you again. God needed another angel and chose you, the best choice. You are and were so loved and admired. Until we meet again, I'm so proud to have been a part of your life. God bless you. Uncle Bob
Bob Hengstler
June 26, 2016
Dear Bob, Nancy and Family,
We were saddened to hear of Justin's passing may God be with you at this tough time.Our family will be praying for you and may his eternal light always shine brightly. I didn't know him but if he is anything like his Dad there is nothing left to say.
God Bless,
Bob, Mary, Erinn, and Ryan Hengstler
Me and Gus
Brian Watson
June 26, 2016
When I met your mom I had no idea the precious gifts she would share with me in you and your sister. I tried my best to be a role model for you and I now know that you were already destined to become a wonderful person so full of heart and compassion for others. After all, you are your mother's son. Your magnetic personality and your charm always puts a smile on my face when I think about you. You could make people smile or laugh at the drop of a hat. Even during the recent times while you were not feeling well, you would always make it a point to start conversations with the nurses and doctors hosting a compliment and a smile. Always putting the wellbeing of others before yourself is an amazing quality that shines within you.
As I reflect on our time together as a family, I can only hope that in some small way, I was a positive influence in the incredible man you became. I learned so much from you about how to love unconditionally and how above all, family is what matters the most. Your faith and the love you held so deeply for your family and friends has no measure and I am a better person for having the pleasure and honor to be called your dad.
My life is changed forever with your passing. Rest now and know that I will always love you.
Bronwyn Levine
June 26, 2016
Rest in Heavenly Peace
Donna Williams
June 25, 2016
My sweet nephew Justin, you have always had the biggest heart! I cherish the times when Grandma and I would load You, Natalie, Melanie and Jared into the Ford Econo-Van with the bed in the back and head to TN for the summer, we had some great times. Your gentle, compassionate, loving spirit will be with me all of my days. I am so proud of the man you became and your willingness to share your daily devotions with Grandma whether beside her bed in the hospital and rehab or by calling her daily to read it to her. I love you so much for doing that even when you might not be feeling very well. You are truly my warrior! I will miss you all of my days. Until we run to each other in heaven and give big hugs I will hold you in my heart. I love you Gus! Aunt Donna
Georgia Bacchus
June 25, 2016
My old friend from HCA. It hurt my heart to hear of your passing. Sending my thoughts and prayers to your family during this difficult time.
Princess Dolly Ritchie
June 25, 2016
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Princess Dolly Ritchie
and Michael
Amanda Lunetta
June 25, 2016
Your life was a precious gift to all of us, Justin. Everything about you will be missed and treasured in our hearts forever.
Tuli Valdes
June 25, 2016
My deepest condolences to Tina and the O'Keefe Family. May he Rest in Eternal Peace.
Ginnie McNally
June 25, 2016
I think of you and your love for basketball and of course your smile. You made an impression on everyone you met. It seems like yesterday, seeing you play at HCA in the gym. Your love for Jordan!. I always asked about what you were upto and followed this path with you, even though I didn't call. Like so many others did. RIP Justin! RIP
doug stackhouse
June 25, 2016
Only knew you a brief time Justin but i could tell you were a good man. Was just getting to know you when you got sick.I feal as though i missed out on having a good friend.R.I.P Justin.
Elin Derfler
June 25, 2016
Justin was one of those genuinely sweet and kind guys who was always willing to help someone out. I hadn't seen him in years, but I'll always remember him that way. Natalie, Denise and all of the many others who loved him, you're in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so very sorry.
June 25, 2016
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal Love leaves a memory no one can steal Hang on to the memories and smile Natalie Prayers and love Teresa Wooten
Missy Watson
June 25, 2016
From the moment you were born, you were loved so much!
Valerie and Dave plemons
June 25, 2016
Sorry for your loss. Need anything, let me know.
Cristina Gonzalez
June 25, 2016
Fly with the angels my friend! So many awesome memories shared with you! But one of my best I can say was a few months back when you walked into wings and caught me just as I was eating a chicken wing, and from across the room I hear you say... "Teeeee". Such a beautiful message you shared that day that I will forever remember. So glad I was blessed to see you. I know you and Carlos must be ballin tonight. My deepest condolences to your family. Rest in paradise Lap!
Melanie Rock
June 24, 2016
Gus, I love you soooo soooo much! We have watched each other grow up for so many years. I will always remember our Tennessee trips together in the summers, and that time in the basement when we were all singing and dancing. Those memories are priceless! Remember when you were teaching Sunday School in the basement? You were preaching then and you were preaching every chance you got! I have loved spending so much time with you these last few months, I wouldn't have missed it for the world! I am gonna miss you like crazy, but I will see you again! I love you to the moon and back!
Joseph O'Keefe
June 24, 2016
Justin for all of us to know you was absolutely to love you. A kind gentle human being that always wanted to laugh, and help, and would ask with sincerity how are you doing, because Justin really wanted to know. Family, and friends, where everything not things, or money. Justin we all love you, and always will. I can never be the person you have been but will always aspire to be better thanks to you. Love you Nephew God Bless.
Kelly Grauso-Burgos
June 24, 2016
Justin (Lap) as your boys would call you, were such a sweetheart. You always made everyone laugh. You meant the world to everyone. I will never forget you always telling me Kell reeeeelax. I'm so sad you had to leave us so soon, but you are not suffering anymore. Fly with the Angels Justin. Say hi to Los! Lots of prayers to , all your family and friends. Until we meet again. Love always Kell Reeee
Missy Davis
June 24, 2016
Only the good, and you are one of the best!
Elisia Martorana
June 24, 2016
Rest in Peace.
Natalie Grafals
June 24, 2016
My Sweet Bubba Gus! You are the Best bubba in the whole, wide world! You are my Champ, My hero, My strong Oak, My Rocky! You are the best Brother & Uncle Gus and we miss you already! You were a young gentleman who never gave up! I love you more than words could ever say! RIP my sweet bubba Gus! Team Gus forever! LOVE YOU!
Karima Bahrnes
June 24, 2016
You were one of my first friends when I moved to Florida and began attending HCA. You always made me laugh and kept things real. I will always remember your laugh, humor, and awesome spirit. Heaven has gained another great angel. RIP❤
Betty Anne Spear
June 24, 2016
My condolences to the entire family. I did not know Justin but followed his Mother's postings on FB for some time. I was so much pulling for a recovery for him. He must have been a terrific person.. My heart goes out to each of you. In His love........Betty Anne Spear
Patty Simmons
June 24, 2016
You meant the world to my sister Tina and you meant the world to me for taking care of my sister and the kids we will miss you and love you always until we meet again in heaven sadly missed but never forgotten R I P
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