On a cold January morning, the small town of Buckfield gathered together in grief to honor and pay final respects to a well-known military airman, friend, brother and son.

Jesse Kimball was 21 years old and was robbed of his promising future, while all of us who knew him were robbed of who he was.

Our small community church was heavy with sorrow and pain and yet everyone there felt a compulsive need to be present. It was impressive to see such a large group of people pull together and, at the same time, reach out with genuine concern for Jesse’s family by offering generous support, kindness and heartfelt sympathy.

Our loss is so great, but it makes me proud to be a member of such a caring community. Jesse was my son’s best friend.

Sue Johnson, Buckfield



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