FRANKLIN, Tenn. - Somber songs of comfort rang out in Franklin Tuesday night for 17-year-old David Hernandez.
Friends and family said the 17-year-old was unforgettable.
"Even if you're on your saddest day he could cheer you up with all his jokes," said lifelong friend, Alejandro Martinez. "He could make anyone laugh."
Hernandez died Thursday morning when a train hit him from behind as he walked the tracks wearing his earbuds. Police said he was on his way to visit girlfriend, Shelby King, at the time.
King said they were inseparable, talking morning through night.
"He would call me on the phone and we would find a channel to watch on TV and we would watch it together and talk about it. That was our -- that was our thing," she said with a smile at the memory.
"They're not alone in this time of grief, they are with all of us with the community of the believers," said Father Bala from St. Philip Catholic Church.
While these songs can't bring David back, the church hopes they bring comfort to those who love him.
With school out, King said she and David had big plans for the future.
"As soon as he turned 18, we were going to get married," she said.
As they grapple with the tragedy, those who love him try to look at his death in a more positive way.
"It's not a ‘bye’ it's like a see you later," Martinez said.
King said talking to David as if he can still hear her helps. And Monday he even talked back.
"When we went to bless the casket, as soon as I went to pick the thing up the train's horn blew," she said. "That was David."
As they pray for his soul, loved ones said they look forward to seeing Hernandez once again.
