Decatur High School graduate remembered as a 'bright light'

DECATUR, Ga. - She was described as a bright light now gone dark. Hundreds turned out Wednesday night at a prayer vigil at Decatur High School for 18-year-old Kennedy Segars. She was killed in a DUI-related crash a week and a half ago.

The Decatur High School Cheerleaders performed a special cheer for one of their own. Segars was a cheerleader and much more who had just graduated from Decatur High School.

“We’ve lost a bright light. She was a brilliant young woman. She was on a full scholarship at Alabama State University,” said Jana Johnson - Davis, a family friend.

Kennedy died a few days after her car was struck near Stonecrest Mall while returning home from college a week and a half ago.

The driver, 52-year-old Reginald Stubbs, faces vehicular homicide and other charges.

Dozens of friends and family members turned out at his court hearing to urge the judge not to release him on bond.

“He’s still behind bars. The family, they just don’t want anyone else to have to go through this. This is his second DUI where he was involved in an accident,” said Mawuli Davis, the family attorney.

Plenty of tears were shed at the prayer vigil for the 18-year-old who had already obtained an associate degree in high school, who was described as feisty, competitive and compassionate.

“This is a very special girl, a very smart girl and she will never be forgotten,” said classmate Alaska Thrash.

After the on-field activities at Decatur High’s football stadium, they gathered off the field to light candles, cry and pray for the special girl who made a difference.

Her father spoke to FOX 5 News after balloons were released to honor his daughter.

“She touched so many hearts and so many people. She was a helper, she always helped people, she always tried to do the right thing, always above and beyond,” said Marvin Segars.

Organizers told FOX 5 News a college scholarship will be established in Kennedy’s name to keep her legacy alive.

Funeral services were Friday at Springfield Baptist Church in Conyers at 11 a.m.