(WTXL) - As 2017 wraps up, WTXL is paying tribute to the people lost in our local community this year.
The people range from Amanda Vickers, the Monticello woman battling brain cancer who's last wish was to speak to Tim Tebow, to Florida High grad Cam Brown, who inspired us all with his warm smile, kind heart and relentless ambition to never give up.
The positivity that radiated from cam was undeniable. Even after being diagnoised with osteosarcoma, even after a leg amputation, it was nothing but smiles from Super Cam. He never gave up.
In 2017, we said goodbye to many who touched the community.
In April, 29-year-old Bruce Maynor Jr. jumped into the water at St. George Island Beach and saved a little boy's life and sacrificed his own. In November, local law enforcement posted a sign with his picture on the beach. Maynor's family, hopes it will serve as a reminder to be safe and aware of beach conditions.
In August, Gadsden County Sheriff's Deputy Maximillan Sander died after months of health struggles from a motorcycle crash in Tallahassee. The Gadsden County Sheriff's Office honored Sander's service with a memorial and a special dedication to his life.
Tallahassee's first black mayor was laid to rest this year. James Ford, 91, died in October. Ford was elected in 1972. He served three terms at city hall.
His contributions impacted all lucky enough to know him.
Family, friends and colleagues said their final goodbyes to Tallahassee firefighter Jeff Atkinson in December. The 43-year-old engineer died on duty. First responders came from all over the Sunshine State to say goodbye. Atkinson is survived by his wife and four-year-old daughter.
These are just some of the lives lost in 2017, a small sign of not just what we'll miss but what we love about living in the Big Bend.
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