DeEbony Groves was singing gospel songs at a Waffle House in Antioch last Sunday when she was shot to death, along with and three others.
Groves’ last moments — singing “Jesus Loves Me” with a friend — reflected the life she lived, according to speakers at Groves’ funeral service Saturday.
Groves, 21, was a senior at Belmont University. She was known for her big smile, tender spirit and Christian faith, speakers said.
She was a few weeks away from obtaining her bachelor’s degree in social work.
Hundreds of people attended Groves’ funeral service Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Gallatin.
“If you look around you, her life speaks for itself,” said Juan Rodriguez, pastor at Grace Tabernacle Christian Center, where Groves attended.
Groves was a choir member and loved to sing. Her funeral service was filled with gospel music performed by family and close friends. Groves’ brother, DiAngelo Groves, sang “The Will of God.” He said his sister used to sing it when she was in the choir.
“My heart is like all in my chest right now,” said DiAngelo Groves. “I’m not a singer … I just want to sing this for my sister.”
Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer spoke briefly at the funeral service.
Ehmer traveled to Nashville as soon as he got the call about the shooting at the restaurant. He said survivors spoke of Groves and her friend.
“They said they were singing gospel songs,” Ehmer said. “And everybody was singing and enjoying each other.”
Sharita Henderson, a fellow sorority member, was injured in the shooting. Her aunt, Renee Hampton, spoke on her behalf at the service.
“I will cherish every smile, every laugh, every hug, every display of love,” said Hampton.
“DeEbony’s life was a display of God’s love,” she said.