RANDOLPH, Ga. (WALB) - The Randolph County community gathered to mourn a family lost in a suspected DUI crash earlier this month.

Bernedine Spann and her two children, 13-year-old Ja’Leah Spann and 7-year-old Jaxton Spann, died Jan. 14 when a suspected DUI driver crossed into oncoming traffic on U.S. 82 in Lee County. The driver slammed head-on into the Spann family’s vehicle.

Bernedine Spann and Ja’Leah died at the scene. Jaxton was airlifted to a hospital but later died from his injuries.

Community gathers at high school

Family and friends gathered at Randolph-Clay High School to honor their lives, sharing memories many said they never imagined having to tell under such circumstances.

“Growing up, I didn’t have siblings in the house because of the age gap, so my cousins was all I had growing up. It was always us, forever the Gladys crew. They were my first babies before I had my own, and that’s something I will always cherish,” said one family member.

The stories shared painted a picture of the impact the Spann family had on those around them. One of Bernedine’s lifelong friends reflected on their shared history, noting the feeling of returning to Randolph-Clay High School under such tragic circumstances.

“And it is a full circle moment for us to be here right now because we walked these very same hallways, had gym class in this very building, and for us to be here is a very challenging moment. I’ve never seen anybody who could flip a ball, who could joke on you and loved you at the same time, and that was Bernedine,” the friend said.

Large turnout moves family

What stood out to many attendees was the show of support from the community. The visitation and today’s service drew crowds that left family members moved by the outpouring of love.

“It means a lot. To see the terrific turnout. It’s tremendous. It’s been even more than that yesterday. The visitation was enormous. And today it’s even more so. The family is really, you know, it’s impacted. It’s much love. And I’m just glad to see everybody came out and support the Spanns,” said a family member.

As they face the road to healing, the Spann family says they will honor the memories of Bernedine, Ja’Leah, and Jaxton by living their lives with unity, love, and remembrance.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2026 WALB. All rights reserved.