Citizens Against Crime held a public prayer vigil Friday afternoon at the intersection of P and 21st Streets for slain handyman Billy Graham.

Late yesterday afternoon, more than 50 adults, children and police gathered at 20th and P streets, near the shooting scene, to honor Graham in a vigil. Graham’s family did not attend, but through a friend they thanked those gathered for their prayers and support.

The group prayed for Graham’s family and for the violence to stop. They also sang hymns to honor the life of Graham, who dedicated himself to helping people.

He cleaned the streets, held cookouts and gave gifts to many of the children living in Mosby Court, said Alicia Rasin, a friend of Graham’s and a co-founder of Citizens Against Crime.

“I know you are all going to miss him,” Rasin told those at the scene and those sitting out on their porches nearby. “I don’t think the kids will get hamburgers, hot dogs and little gifts anymore.”

Ra’quan Mayo, 9, gathered up enough courage to come up to the microphone and sing a song for Graham. Ra’quan said he remembered seeing Graham cleaning the streets.

“He was a good guy,” he said.

Azeem Muhammad, 11, pointed to a nearby backyard where Graham used to cook burgers and hot dogs for the children. People are going to miss him, he said.

[ text from the RTD ]

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