Jackson Fendley, a 19-year-old Virginia Tech student from Harrisonburg, tragically lost his life in a boating accident on Lake Gaston, leaving behind a legacy of passion, kindness, and love for nature, music, and animals.
Jackson was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed tennis, hiking, skiing, and gazing at the stars, sunrises, and sunsets. He was also a talented classical guitarist who loved sharing his music with friends. His passion for music and nature was only matched by his academic curiosity, as he pursued a degree in neuroscience and music at Virginia Tech.
Jackson’s love for animals was evident in his gentle and compassionate demeanor, which earned him the affection of all who knew him. His family and friends were the center of his universe, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
The tragic incident occurred on June 22, when a boat carrying three people collided with a wharf on Lake Gaston. The boat operator fled the scene but was later treated and discharged from the hospital. Jackson succumbed to his injuries in the collision, leaving his community, friends, and family in shock and grief.
The NC Wildlife Resources Commission is investigating the incident, with charges pending. The circumstances surrounding the accident are still unknown, but the authorities are working to uncover the truth.
Jackson’s unexpected death has left a void in the lives of all who knew him, but his memory will live on through his kindness, love of nature, music, and animals. His family and friends remember him as a bright and compassionate person whose life was sadly cut short.
The Kyger Funeral Home and his family will release a full obituary in the coming days, but for now, they request privacy as they grieve the loss of their beloved son, brother, and friend.
Jackson Fendley’s life may have been cut short, but his legacy will continue to inspire and encourage those who knew him. His memory will be a blessing to all who knew him, and his impact on the community will never be forgotten.
In memory of Jackson Fendley, his community will come together to cherish the memories they shared with him. His love of nature, music, and animals will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.
The loss of Jackson Fendley is a tremendous blow to the Harrisonburg and Virginia Tech communities, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His family, friends, and community will always remember his passion, kindness, and love for life.
