Mourners Remember Dynamic Spirit of Johnston's Cameron Carico

Electric, dynamic, leader, supportive, inclusive, were all words used to describe Cameron Carico at his funeral on Thursday.

As the blue casket, adorned with red roses, made its way down the aisle, sobs could be heard throughout Oakwood United Methodist Church in Pleasant Hill.

Hundreds of mourners filled every room of the church to remember the 15-year-old Johnston Middle School student, who committed suicide on Jan. 28.

The Rev. Richard Boatman reminded those in attendance that the day was a celebration of Cameron's life, but also a time to grieve the loss.

"This is a treasure chest," Boatman said referring to Cameron's casket. "This is the treasure of Cameron."

While Boatman recalled special memories of Cameron, including that his grandmother Judy said he had the best hugs, the minister gave a warning to the youths in the church.

"To Cameron's friends, I want you to see the pain this has caused those that loved Cameron," he said. "We all need to hold onto each other."

Minister Reminds Teens of Pain that Death Caused

Youth pastor David Travnicek recited a portion of a poem Cameron wrote last year titled, "I Am."

"I am the child of God and caring; I wonder the meaning of life; I hear the call from God to become a youth pastor; I see the hate people show each other; I want to help anyone that needs it; I am a child of God and caring."

Cameron was a competitor and an athlete, Travnicek said.

"But most importantly he was a supporter," he said. "He was there to cheer someone on."

Creating High-Five Fridays, Cameron was always the first to make you feel welcome, Travnicek said.

"Cameron was an extraordinary young man. … He will live on in our hearts and our lives," he said.

Bands Distributed With Teen's Favorite Psalm

Members of the church's youth group wrote Cameron's favorite verse, Psalm 146.1 on rubber bands to distribute as a way to remember the teen: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Although, Cameron would have made those in attendance High-Five, the service ended with everyone holding hands and reciting "Lord I Lift Your Name On High".

The clergy at Oakwood urged anyone in the audience, especially youths, to seek help if they entertain any harmful thoughts similar to Cameron's.

"You are not alone," the clergy said.