MCMINNVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Friends and family gathered at the McMinnville First Baptist Church to remember Jordan Stevens, a man who was murdered in a carjacking in Coffee County.
Police say Jordan and his wife were victims of Deangelo Dorsey during a crime spree on I-24 over the weekend. Dorsey allegedly shot and killed Jordan but spared his wife Aileen because she was pregnant.
"He died a hero, saving his wife and unborn child. And will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. He was deeply loved," said Pastor Jeff Owens.
Aileen's grandfather and uncle spoke at the service the spoke about Jordan's character, humbleness and kindness.
"Jordan was a great example in such a little time of his life. In his short time, he knew who he was and who he believed in," her uncle said.
They worshiped together in song and through scripture, saying that Jordan was now with his heavenly father.
His mother Michelle read a poem called "Sweet Child."
Before reading she said, "first of all as a mother my heart is breaking but I know Jordan, he's in a better place and I thank God that He gave me that little blessing and I want you to know that he had a heart of love."
She was followed by Aileen who calmly explained her lack of tears saying, "if I'm OK, you should be OK...There's nothing that can change what happened and I'm OK with that." She pointed to the casket and said "that's not him, that's just his physical body. He's in heaven."
She talked about her time with Jordan fought back tears as she read an inscription from the back of the watch she gave him as an anniversary gift."
"To my husband, you are my always and forever, my happily ever after, my soul mate, my best friend. Our journey so far has been an amazing ride. The best part is that you have me, that you and me have been side by side. Being together gives me life's best views. I wish I could turn back time. I would find you sooner and love you longer.
After reading it, she looked up at those in the church pews and said, "And I can't do that; so if you have someone that you have next to you, I hope that gives you some encouragement to love them while they're here."
