MACON, Ga. — What began as a somber vigil for Joshua Woodard on Friday night soon turned into a celebration of life, as friends and family gathered at the Overtyme Bar & Grill to honor the young man’s memory with music, dance and heartfelt stories.

Woodard, a sophomore honors student at Fort Valley State University, died last Saturday after an illness.

On Monday, the university issued a statement saying the community is deeply saddened by the loss of Woodard, an "engaged student" who studied Visual and Performing Arts.

“We are heartbroken by the passing of Mr. Joshua Woodard,” said FVSU President Paul Jones. “Our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt condolences are with his family and loved ones at this time.”

Woodard's sister, Eboni Whitfield, said her brother’s love for performing was

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