Jarred “Bubba” Snell was extremely loved during his time on this Earth.

The overflowing Pike County High School gymnasium Tuesday afternoon was evidence of that fact. Many family members, friends, classmates and others gathered to say one last goodbye to Bubba and to celebrate his life.

The Pike County junior class told the crowd gathered about the 15 things they loved about Bubba and several testimonials outlined the great life that Bubba lived.

It did not feel like a funeral Tuesday afternoon in that gym. It felt more like a celebration of life. There was sadness and there were tears flowing, but all the people in attendance were there to show their respects to the Snell family and to show how much they truly loved Bubba.

But the funeral procession Tuesday was only the final piece of evidence showing how great of a person Bubba was.

Only five days earlier the Pike County boys’ basketball team honored its fallen teammate by playing their regional playoff game. The Bulldogs may have lost the game, but they honored their teammate well.

The stands were packed with Pike County fans, many of whom were holding signs with Bubba’s name. One sign had the phrase “Heaven has one more angel” with a picture of Bubba in the middle.

All other events were canceled last Thursday to allow the entire Pike County community to go support the Bulldogs in that tough time.

I did not get to know Bubba personally, but everyone I spoke with about this young man had nothing but good things to say about him.

It is always sad when a child is taken from this world, but there can be comfort found in the outpouring of support from the community.

PCHS principal Mike Hall talked fondly about Bubba at the funeral Tuesday and he looked Bubba’s mother, Kim Snell, straight in the eye and told her how Bubba was the epitome of what a Pike County Bulldog should be.

The Bulldogs have lost a tough competitor and a great kid. May God bless the Snell family in their time of sadness.

Matt Nascone is the sports editor for The Messenger. He can be reached at 670-6315 or online at matt.nascone@troymessenger.com.