The University of Alabama community gathered in large numbers this week to honor the life of student James “Jimmy” Gracey, holding a series of memorial events in Tuscaloosa following his death during spring break in Spain.

A standing-room-only Catholic mass was held Monday evening at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish, where students, friends, and faculty filled the church to capacity.

The remembrance continued Tuesday night, when hundreds gathered outside the Theta Chi fraternity house for a candlelight vigil organized by Gracey’s fraternity brothers.

Speakers at the vigil, including Theta Chi International President Toby Roth, shared personal reflections on Gracey’s character as mourners filled the lawn and surrounding areas. The University of Alabama President Peter Mohler also attended.

Friends remembered Gracey as someone known for his compassion and generosity.

“Jimmy was always smiling — like, just a big smiler,” one speaker said. “And Jimmy was so compassionate.”

Another fraternity brother described his integrity in everyday moments.

Speaking about times Jimmy would ask to borrow his car, one fraternity brother shared, “My gas tank was always a little more full than when I left it … That was the kind of guy Jimmy was.”

Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama junior, died last week while on spring break in Barcelona, Spain. He had been out with friends at a nightclub before disappearing in the early morning hours of March 17, prompting a widespread search.

Authorities later located his body in a nearby marina. A preliminary autopsy indicated the death was likely accidental, and police have said they are not currently pursuing criminal charges as they await final toxicology results.

The report noted that large crowds gathered for both memorial events, underscoring the impact Gracey had on his peers and the broader campus community.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].