Townville, S.C. - "This isn't supposed to happen."
That’s what Oakdale Baptist Church Associate Pastor Tim Marcengill tells mourners at Townville Elementary School shooting victim Jacob Hall’s memorial service this morning.
Townville is “overwhelmed” with grief and loss, he adds.
Before Marcengill, "Batman" eulogized Jacob, who was 6 when he died Saturday
"If you see someone in trouble, help them, because Jacob would," said John Buckland, dressed as the Caped Crusader. "Out of this community, the world is seeing how to do it right."
As the service began, volunteer firefighter Jamie Brock escorted Jacob Hall's family into the sanctuary at Oakdale Baptist Church. Brock is hailed as a hero for subduing the gunman who shot Jacob and two others Sept. 28.
The pianist has been playing hymns, including "How Great Thou Art," as mourners in tears softly sing along.
Gov. Nikki Haley and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott have arrived and the pastor earlier asked everyone to "scoot over" to make room and the church is packed. Scott is wearing a Superman T-shirt.
Jacob's tiny blue casket is surrounded by flowers, wreaths and balloons featuring some of his favorite superheroes.
A pianist is softly playing hymns.
Townville resident Sherri Oubre has known Jacob's mother, Renae Hall, since she was a teenager. "She's a loving person," said Oubre after arriving at the church. "It is going to be a long road for the family."
Some pews have been reserved inside the sanctuary. Along with those roped off for the family, other pews have been designated for teachers from Townville Elementary School and for firefighters from Townville. A separate section has been reserved for Haley and other dignitaries.
The program that is being handed to mourners bears a picture of Jacob and the words "God's Super Hero." Inside the program are words to the hymn "Jesus Loves Me."
Jacob, 6, was shot last week as a teenager opened fire on the playground at the elementary school, investigators with the Anderson County Sheriff's Office said. He died Saturday.
A 14-year-old is accused of killing his father, 47-year-old Jeffrey Osborne, before going to the school. He is also charged in the death of Jacob and with wounding a first-grade teacher and hurting two other students.
Outside the church, a small group is gathered and holding a sign that reads: "Jesus, protect our children from gun violence."
