James ‘Jimmy’ Gracey live updates: Catalan police say missing student has been found dead in waters off Barcelona beach
Theta Chi Fraternity has released the following statements on the death of University of Alabama chapter member James “Jimmy” Gracey in Barcelona, Spain:
“Theta Chi International Fraternity and the Alpha Phi Chapter at the University of Alabama together mourn the passing of their brother, James “Jimmy” Gracey, whose body was recovered today after a multi-day search in Barcelona, Spain.”
Statement from Mike Mayer, CEO of Theta Chi International Fraternity:
“It is with profound grief that Theta Chi International Fraternity mourns the passing of our brother James ‘Jimmy’ Gracey, a beloved member of our Alpha Phi Chapter at the University of Alabama.
“Jimmy served his chapter as both Chaplain and as a Philanthropy Chairman. These roles reflected who he was at his core: a young man of deep faith, genuine care for others, and an abiding commitment to his brothers and his community. He was exactly the kind of man Theta Chi aspires to build – a Resolute Man.
“Driven by true devotion and fraternal love, his Theta Chi brothers in Barcelona searched tirelessly for Jimmy for several days. We are deeply proud of them, and we recognize what they have experienced, along with so many across our brotherhood, has been profoundly traumatic. We respectfully implore local, national, and international media to give these young men the space they need to process and grieve this unthinkable loss. We remind all collegiate brothers of Theta Chi the mental health resources the fraternity provides, and we strongly encourage anyone who is struggling with this news to utilize them.
“We are heartbroken for Jimmy’s family and ask all who loved him to join us in praying for them – not just in the days ahead, but long after the headlines have faded.
“In the coming days, Theta Chi will announce ways to honor Jimmy’s life and legacy. Now and always, he remains in our hearts and a cherished part of our eternal brotherhood.”
Statement from Cavin McLay, President, Alpha Phi Chapter, University of Alabama:
“There are no words to describe the pain of losing our beloved brother, Jimmy. He was a man of profound faith who walked with Christ in all facets of his life, and he inspired every one of us to do the same. As our Chapter Chaplain, Jimmy closed every chapter meeting in prayer, bringing us together in a way that reflected exactly who he was and how deeply he was loved and respected.
“Jimmy always went out of his way for anyone who needed him, whether that was guidance in their faith, a shoulder to lean on, or simply someone to share a smile and laugh with. He was always asking how your day was going and was always thinking about the people around him. His smile and attitude were infectious and such a light in our Chapter.
“I can say without hesitation that I am a better person for having known him. He was a role model, a warrior of Christ, and the kind of man every one of us should aspire to be. His faith inspires us to live a life sharing the love of the Lord, and his impact on this Chapter and every individual within it is too great to fully convey. We were all blessed to have him in our lives.
“To say Jimmy will be deeply missed would be an understatement. I am so grateful for the support around the world this chapter is receiving in these difficult times. We find comfort in the wisdom of John 16:22: ‘Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again, and you will rejoice.'”
