This site is dedicated to the memory of Jillian and Lee Wagner, killed on Mothers Day 2004 on an interstate in Georgia. Jillian was 18 and Lee was 16. Both were wearing their seat belts but sometimes that does not matter.
The purpose of this site is to share our broken hearts, and maybe through our actions as parents, prevent this tragedy from happening to others.
Please feel free to open any items you wish.
If you want to contribute to the Jillian and Lee Wagner Scholarship Fund. This fund has been set up to help others that are less fortunate than we. We feel this is what Jillian and Lee would want us to do. If a contribution is not something you feel you can do, simply pray for guidance that we can do something in this life that will make a difference.Click here to donate
We welcome you thoughts about our website or our struggles. If you would like to leave a comment please fill free to do so by clicking the comments word below.
Best Regards
Lee Wagner
Jillian and Lee’s Dad
Hey, guys. I love you and think about you often. Hold strong to God’s word… Vikki
DEBBIE,
IT WAS GREAT TO TALK TO YOU THE OTHER NIGHT. WE WILL STAY IN TOUCH. TELL LEE HELLO AND WE LOVE & APPRECIATE YOU BOTH.
GOD BLESS,
WYNETT & LENNY
SOMETIMES THINGS HAPPEN WE DONT UNDERSTAND WHY YOUR LIFES HE HAD TO TAKE,WE KNOW YOU HEAR US GRIEVE.BUT THIS LIFE IS FAR TO SHORT AND YOU WERE TO YOUNG TO LEAVE. BUT GOD BROKE OUR HEARTS TO PROVE HE TAKES THE BEST. BUT KNOW WE JUST HAVE TO BE STRONG AND KNOW THEY ARE IN A BETTER PLACE WAITING FOR US TO SEE THEM AGAIN SOMEDAY. LOVE YOU
COREY
Mr and Mr. Wagner,
As you know I love the Wagner family very much and Lee and Jill were very close to me. Lee was one of my best friends and I loved Jill. The day I got the news, it was one of the hardest things I”ve ever had to deal with in my life. I miss Lee and Jill everyday. I truly consider you to be a second family for me and view Lee and Deborah as a mom and dad. I think it’s great what you are doing and look forward to supporting it anyway that I can. I will gather all of the group and we will be there to support you.
Lee and Debbie, I think the website is an awesome idea. What a great thing to do. I pray that you two will be able to share your story with many young drivers so that they might be aware of their surrounding when they are behind the wheel.
Love and miss you both. Lynn Howard
Mr. and Mrs. Wagner,
You are the strongest people I know. I am so happy to see you can share this story with others. I am proud of you both and you are wonderful parents. I will always be here to support you in anyway possible.
I love you both.
Laura Blalock
Lee:
I have never shared the hurt as I did on this tragic day. Even though we don’t talk very often, you are always in my heart. Many blessings to
you and Debbie.
Aloha Debbie and Lee~
We are walking in paradise here in Hawaii! Many ladies are committed to the walk…..I’ll keep y’all posted. Much love and Aloha from your BFF!
Dearest Lee and Debbie, i know just how deep is your pain. I also know you will never be the same again, but with the grace of God we will be transformed into what He wants us to be for Him! I know you will never stop missing Lee and Jill, just I NEVER stop missing Eric. You will think of them every day, but as the days grow farther from the accident you will learn to remember the wonderful happy times. And I know as the years pass, this only means we are closer to seeing our children in eternity with God! This a really good and positive thing you are doing, Lee. Keep up the good work, you are an inspiration to MANY!!! Love you both, stay strong, cyndi harkins
WOW! What a tribute! Your strength to talk so openly inspires me. Your courage to pursue all these things with your head held high just reaffirms your faith in God that we saw for so many years. Thad still has the memorial bulletin from the funeral in sight on his visor-as Lee’s loss was the first that left a lasting impression of how precious life is and a constant reminder of the “good ol” days shooting off firecrackers and draino bombs just for the fun of it. They truly lived life to the fullest and no one can take those memories away or the reassurance that God is good and will let us all gather again as we have done together in the past.
i love and miss lee everday. he brought,and im sure i speak for everyone when i say, so much happiness and laughter everytime he was around. im so gratefull i had the honor of having him as a part of my life, even if only briefly. When reading this website i saw there was a comment about you wondering if lee and jill would just fade into being two kids that passed away in an accident and i promise you will that will never happen. they impacted way too many peoples lives. too many people loved them to ever forget. and with this walk i think you are furthering that bc now people who didn’t know them will remember too. i know im not one of the most familar faces to you guys but please know that you have all my support and love and i keep you in my prayers always. i hope to see you again soon.
grace
Mr. and Mrs. Wagner,
It takes a lot of healing and growing to be able to share this with everyone. Jillie was my best friend and Lee was a friend through Jill. I miss them both dearly and I often think about them. I have a picture of me and Jillie I look at everyday and it is as if she was right by my side. It was definately one of the hardest things for me to deal with after the accident. But I prayed and read books and prayed for you and everyone else. I know that they would be proud of what you’ll are doing for the scholarship program. I miss you’ll and I will come see you soon. If you ever need anything, please let me know. I love you both.
Lee,
My name is Jim Ellison and I was the pastor of Providence UMC when Jillian and Lee had their accident. I am also good friends with your former pastor, Steve Schofield.
I am now the pastor of Atlanta First UMC and was wondering how you were coming through Atlanta and if we could help in some way.
Please shoot me an email at jim@atlantafumc.net with the details of your walk.
Take care and know that I am praying for you.
Jim
My family lives in LaGrange and we all remember the accident that took your beautiful children. Although words can never lessen the burden on your heart, the way in which you honor your children will live on and might be a help and strength to others that find themselves in your place. My heart goes out to you for your loss and I will share this with you, that when I pass that place on the highway, I say a little prayer you and your family. Time heals nothing, it’s what you do with that time that makes a difference.
Dear Debbie & Lee,
Firstly, I want you to know how very proud I am of you both. Your faith, strength, love, honor and courage are inspiring to us all. The website is so beautiful and meaningful.
D.J., I remember the fun we had as kids growing up in Columbus. A simple life where we were concerned about going to the mall and the baseball field. Getting to eat a chili dog and having our favorite GA. Bar-B-Q was the highlight on a weekend. Pat would always have cold Reese’s Cups and RC’s in the fridge. Those are my beloved childhood memories.
But, we are grown now and times have changed. Always know that I love and care about you no matter the time between our visits.
Lee, so many people will be praying for you during your walk for Jillie and Little Lee. I have no doubt these children will be walking every step with you.
Believing with you- in the wisdom of His ways, in the goodness of His love, and the assurance of His presence as He keeps you every step of the way.
Love & Blessings,
Joan
Dear Lee & Debbie
Someone from work shared your website with me today. I remember when I first heard of your tragedy, almost 4 years ago, through friends at the hospital where I work, I was sick for you. Not being able to comprehend your pain. I felt such sadness.
I have now joined in the walk and know, as I lost my son November 24, 2007, in a truck rollover accident.
I hope one day to be able to honor David as beautifully as you
are honoring Jillian and Lee. My prayers are with you both.
I first met Lee and Jillian in my sophmore year at Starr’s Mill High School, and although I really can’t remember what we did or where we went, Lee and I hit it off to be best friends for life. God, I can still remember his laugh, he was always smiling, always just loving life. But as many have said in the past, “Only the good die young,” and I truly believe that with the bottom of my heart. After speaking with Mrs. Wagner and learning more about the accident, I have come to believe that Lee had a choice…. either to live and let his sister rise to heaven by herself or to leave and go forth guiding Jillian and answering God’s calling for his soul. It really hurts to rehash the times up until his death, but by God’s graces I was able to see him the day before he died. Man… I can still remember the phone call from our friend Alex, Lee is dead! I cried for hours that night, reuniting with all of our closest friends just talking about how great he was how amazingly his life had impacted ours. Years have passed, and I have visited with the Wagners many times reliving my memories of Lee at Mr. Wagner’s and building a beautiful porch patio in the back yard. I will always remember my best friend and his sister until we reunite again at heaven’s gates. I feel his presence everywhere I go, he is my personal angel.
I applaud you both for the grace and energy you have devoted to your children. Debbie and I have spoken over the years about the memorial, grieving process, vehicle safety, love of friends and family. The website and planned walk are beautiful and inspirational. I have always appreciated your ability to share with others the processes you have gone through since their death. It gives me strenth to honor my lost ones and love the people I am with.
Lee,
May God continue to bless you – you have taken something tragic and turned it into a blessing for other people – it takes a very big person to look past their own personal grief and reach out to other people.
The deaths of Jillian and Lee Wagner was the most influential experience I have ever gone through in my life. The shock, anger, and remorse I felt at that time were the most powerful emotions I have ever personally felt. Lee was definitively the nicest person I have ever met in life, and is missed and will be missed forever. Lee’s ability to brighten everyones mood in a room and his caring attitude for all people are qualities that he used to bring out in all of us, but I know with confidence that he looks down upon each and every one of us and is truly in a better place.
Mr. and Mrs. Wagner have become truly a second family to me, and the gratitude I have for y’all is unmeasureable. The effort you have put into raising awareness about traffic accidents and the lives they undoubtedly take early is excellent, and I want both of you to know that I love and support you in the fullest. I will be there in person to walk the last section with you Mr. Wagner, and I know Lee and Jillian will be with you every step of the journey, living on through our memories and thoughts.
Love Tim
A group of Lee’s classmates from NDSH Class of ’70 meet monthly for a mini-reunion at a local restaurant. Some of us would like to show our support for him by walking the last mile to Bethesda on May 11 with him and his wife. Pls. let me know if this would be okay with him. We don’t want to intrude, and should he not want the company during that time we certainly would understand. Our prayers are with Lee and Debbie.
Lee, I have often thought about you and your family since this tragedy. Working in a school I have experienced the loss of students in accidents, just two years ago Ledford lost 3 boys in one accident. As a parent, I cannot begin to know what you and your wife have gone through and continue to feel. Just know that God does have a plan for everyone, maybe unknown to you yet, but this tragedy will bring God to someone when they least expect it.
God’s love and our prayers are with you and I hope to participate in the last part of your walk in May. God Bless and Keep you
Hi,
I have been a member at Bethesda for about 3 years now. I heard your story and then went to your site to read it for myself. I must say that this morning as I read “The Accident” I was brought to tears.
It was tragic yet triumphant. I give you praise for being so strong and never losing your faith. I give God praise for doing what he said he would do, he never left your side through all this and he never will. I will be praying for you and your walk. What an awesome thing to do to keep your childrens memory alive.
May God Bless you all the way!!!!!!
In Christ,
Michael Lane
HI Lee,
I wanted to take a few moments and let you know how moved I was to read the article in Sunday’s “Winston-Salem Journal” regarding the walk you are planning in your children’s memory.
God bless you and your wife for the courage and faith you have shown to move forward and continue to bring about good. I mailing a check and am hopeful that I will be in town on Sunday, May 11th as you conclude your walk.
There is a friend at the church I attend, Beulah UCC on Arnold Road, Judy Ball Lackey, who we went to high school year (she was a year ahead of us). Her daughter, Kimberly, died of breast cancer after having found a lump in her breast when she was three months pregnant. She only lived a couple of years after the birth of her daughter. This was Judy’s only child, and she, like you, has shown such strength, courage, and faith in God and I am amazed.
Please continue and know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rita Shoaf Lanier
I just wanted to say sorry about your son & daughter. My prayers are with your family.
Lee,
Even though we are miles apart I think of you often. I have many memories of conversations we had about children while traveling together, and how proud parents we were. When I heard the news about Jillian and Lee
I cried as if they were my own. This has made me take another look at life and the way I think of my children. I’m so very proud of you and the way you have chosen to preserve the memory of Jilly and Lee. You will always have a special place in my heart!
Bff Barry
We love you and continue to pray for you often. It has been a privilege to see your great love for Jillie and Lee. May God continue to hold you in this life until you will be reunited with them in His presence. We love you.
I heard of your “Walk”and struggles with your children’s death on the “Nancy Grace Show” this evening. I live in Winston-Salem, NC.
My son had just finished Guilford College with a major in Criminal Justice and two minors, History and Political Science. He was starting down the path for which he had planned all his life. The Greensboro Police Department hired him. There were 20 openings and 300 applicants. He made the sun shine every day for those around him. He never gave me one sleepless night. He was such a joy.
Before his first six months were up, he was diagnosed with leukemia (AML) and died after a strong fight sixteen months later. That was 11 years ago. I was by his side day and night during that time. His father and I divorced 4 years before and his dad was an absentee dad. He didn’t even come to the hospital during the bone marrow transplant! I have worked hard to help get the bone marrow donor registry started here.
You and your wife are heroes because you have come so far from the tragedy. I wish I had the same healing you seem to have. Continue to walk and talk and inspire others as you have me. I can hope now, maybe some day healing will come to me. (He was my only child.)
Thank you for sharing,
Cheryl S. S
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wagner
On December 31 my best and closest friend was killed in a car accident 2 1/2 years ago. As this turned my life upside down I truly cannot imagine the loss of a child let alone 2. Today after watching Nancy Grace and hearing your story and your courage to not only go on but to do something tremendous in there honor I have donated $200 towards the scholarship fund. I also hope that you will continue the walk next year as I would love to plan to bring my fellow girlfriends to not only walk by your side but to encourage them to join me in raising more money in your childrens honor. Thank you so much for sharing your story and sharing your courage to move on and remember them in the spirit of giving back!
Krystin (Illinois)
I heard about you tonight on Nancy Grace. I am so very sorry for your horrific loss, it is one of the most difficult things anyone will ever experience. My precious nephew left this earth just 6 days before your children did. He was involved in a single car accident with his father (definitely not my brother, he used to be married to my sister) whose blood alcohol level was nearly triple the legal limit. It was such a shock.There is so much pain for everyone. I am so impressed with your efforts and will certainly send a donation as soon as I am able. The grief your family deals with is unfortunately shared by so many and I just wanted to send you prayers and thanks for your positive efforts. May God continue to hold you in his hands and grant you His awesome peace…that’s the only thing that will get us all through these ordeals. Peace…
I saw your talk on Nancy Grace tonight and you are in my prayers and will be everyday. I lost my oldest grandson 2 years ago on Mother’s Day in an auto accident very much like the one your children had and we sometimes forget that there are other people that feel the same deep hurt. I know that only the knowledge that they are with the Lord makes this any less. We lost David in Florida and my heart will always be there. You seem to be such good examples of how we should be letting God do the healing of our souls and that we will again see them in Heaven. Thank you and God bless you.
Lee and Debbie,
Tonight I watched you on Nancy Grace and it was so surreal. The pictures of Jillie and Lee made me look back on on the beautiful memories of Welcome pool, slumber parties, and too many other memories to list. You two are some of the strongest people I have ever been fortunate enough to meet. All of those memories I have of Jillie and Lee help me cope with the deep loss that we all have experienced. I will always think of “Jillian and Gillian” and all of the funny, happy times what we had. If I read everything right, y’all are going to be walking in Welcome and ending up at Bethesda’s service on Mother’s day. I will see you there!
I want to do everything I can to help with the walk and to remember Jillie and Lee. I miss them so much, and I am so glad to see the wonderful work that y’all are doing for them. You are truly working through God and we all feel him working through the both of you. Thank you again and God Bless you.
Love y’all,
Gillian
I just saw your story on Nancy Grace. Your such wonderful and couragous people. Im glad your doing this walk and Im sure your children are so proud of you for doing this in their honor. I lost my son just before his 5th birthday less than a year ago to a drowning. Your so right the sadness can eat you up. But with God we can pick ourselves up and keep going. I can go on because I know I will see Kedan again oneday. I too have got our story out there although not on tv. It helps to know in the death of our children we can help others. May God bless your family and thank you both for walking for our angels.
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wagner,
I saw and heard about what you have had to endure tonight on the Nancy Grace Show. I commend you for your courage……. to put meaning into such a horrific loss. You are obviously extraordinary people. I wish I could contribute but unfortunately I am not able to.
I am a single parent, can not work and live in Vancouver, BC Canada. I know how difficult life can be. My daughter was in a horrific 1 vehicle car accident when she was 19. Her jeep rolled many times to miss a pack of dogs. Lisa was the only one of her friends wearing a seat belt, the boy next to her was killed – the others thrown clear. Lisa was found hanging upside down in her seatbelt with the roll bar wrapped around her head. The quick action of the attendants and trauma doctor, who road in the ambulance with her, saved her life. She was 2 months in intensive care and 1 year at a rehab hospital….yes she lived but with a lifetime of challenges. Two “invisible” disabilities…… broke her back in 4 places which left her with chronic back pain as well as a significant brain injury. As a single parent she (and I) struggle each day to overcome a number of difficulties associated with her injuries. But with her tenacity she will succeed (with some extra help) and go back to college and get her Fashion Design Degree. Lisa was half way there when the accident happened.
I sincerely wish you all the best in your “Walk to Remember” – what a wonderful tribute to your children. You are an inspiration to all!
God bless,
Diane
I too watched you on Nancy Grace tonight. This is the first I have heard this and it touched a place in my heart so deeply that I had to visit the website. Immediately the tears began. Tears because I feel your hurt, tears because I hope and pray I never have to go thru what you and your family have endured. I am in awe of your strength and courage. It only reinforces the knowledge that God is great and is forever walking with us, and you Lee, as you make your journey these next weeks. Know that you and your family will forever be in my prayers.
Debbie, Lee and Corey,
I heard about Lee’s walk last Sunday and have been following the story.
Jane told me about the Nancy Grace show tonight and since she is my most favorite TV personality, I was so excited that you had the opportunity to share your story on her show. Although we have not stayed in touch, please know that I will never, ever forget the memories that I have of Jillie and Lee. Gillian read the website lastnight and she called me and cried. She was so sad and we talked along time about Jillie and Lee memories. Gillian has kept a picture of she and Jillie displayed in her dorm room and apts all through college. Now that Gillian is a new mom (Remi Jane) she really understands the love a mother has for her child. So many of the comments I read talked about God, faith and your strength as a family. Because I know how close your family is, and of your strong faith, I think it is also important to remember these two kids with great big smiles. This is how we remember your kids. I know in my heart that Jillie (we spent the most time with her, because
she and Gillian were great buddies ) was a child of God, because even though she had a very mischievous and fun spirit, she was the most loving girl and so sensitive about the feelings of others. When Gillian I remember Jillie, I always see her beautiful red hair and freckles (ditto Lee). Everytime Gillian has goes to a restaurant and get French Onion Soup (her favorite, thanks to the Wagner’s), she will call me and say, ‘I went out to eat lastnight and I had French onion soup and I thought about Jillie. ‘ Jillie always said thank you and yes m’am. A rarity. Jillie always wanted to help me clean my house and even clean up after my kids at MY house when she would come over to spend the night. Tonight Greg and I were remembering how Jillie would always be singing.. (loud) at our house or wherever. Greg remembered that she always called Lee “Diddy” and she was always waiting to see what prize you were going to bring her from your trips. Of all the girls we have had traipsing through our lives with our three girls, I must say that Jillie was at the top of the list. She was never a fake or phony. She was fun to be around and she always did the funniest things that made me laugh. That girl had a great big imagination and could sure make up some golly whoppers. Gillian remembers one boy when they were in about 5th or 6th grade that Jillie was obsessed with chasing and giving a kiss to. Debbie, do you remember when she got that awful splinter in her foot and was so hysterical? Gillian and I talk about how she use to try to sneak candy by hiding it in her panties and would try to sneak by you, but Gillian said you caught her in the act. I remember when Jillie first came into our lives. Jane had been telling me about how cute (all) your kids were and wanted me to meet you (Debbie) and them, because our families were kind of the same. At first we got to know Jillie and then we got to know Lee because he and Merrie had that little whatever childhood thing going on. Jillie always tried to play cupid with them by telling Merrie that Lee thought she was so cute in her little red glasses. I could write so much about my wonderful memories of your kids, but I will stop here. Debbie, we logged so many hours on the phone commiserating about our kids little problems and I am just so thankful that they were part of our family history. Thank you for sharing them with us for a little while. We sure loved them and they will never be forgotten by those who knew them.
Holly
I saw your story on CNN tonight and wanted to let you know that I believe you are doing a WONDERFUL thing. My sister lost her 20 year old son 8 months ago (not good at math, he died 8-25-07). I feel so lost as to what I can say or do. I think the reality of what happened is only just now hitting her, she’s avoiding me (and others as well), and is just so (understandably) very sad. I’ve been trying to think of something to give her for Mother’s Day. Maybe if I donated towards your walk in honor of my nephew (is there a way to do that?), maybe she would also feel like he didn’t die in vain? She is only 38 (we’re only a year apart) and overcame so many obsticles to get where she is (VP of a MAJOR bank), she’s a devout Christian, raised her kids right. Tylor was wearing his seatbelt, just driving to work, no drinking, no drugs, NOTHING. Do you have any advice?
—Reminder, In honor of my five year old daughter, remember April is Autism Awareness month. My daughter (Cree) is non-verbal, pdd-nos.
Thanks for your time,
Vicki Couch
To Lee, Debbie, & Corey,
First of all my deepest condolences go out to you and your friends. What you are doing brings to light what true family values mean and should be practiced by all that walk the earth. Instead, we see so much selfishness and hate and crime that destroys our abiltiy to trust anyone anymore.
Remembering the ones we have loved and lost strikes an awareness of how we need to cherish every day that we are alive and with the ones that we can touch, hold, kiss, and tell them that we love them. Every parent dreads the day that reality comes in loosing a child or relative in any manner. I don’t need to tell you – but everyone else needs to let their children know how much they mean to them and how much they care. Telling your child that you love them – every day – is a must, because one day may be the last.
I almost experienced what you have lived through. My son rolled a Jeep Cherokee two (2) years ago Feb. and was thrown through the sunroof and hit the pavement. He was on life support and he had been put on the donors list for organ transplants. The neurosurgeon gave us 48hrs to wait and see. He had 2 hairline skull fractures with hematoma bleeding. Fortunately, he was in the 5% that make it – as his doctor told him at the foot of the bed. He walked out of the hospital 4 days later and went back to work within a week. To this day I think he suffers minute memory loss and his decision making is not the same. He is not the same person he was before the accident. But he is alive by the garce of God and I keep telling him – God has bigger and better things for you in his plan – so don’t take risks.
Ever since then, I spend hours reading about tributes and memories of so many young kids that die in car accidents, are murdered, or commit suicide on YouTube (Tributes – look up Chelsey Roman, Anna Svidersky, Fairport Angels, Wolcott Teens to name a few). I feel the pain their families go through and friends losses that meant so much to their own lives through their blogs and condolensces. I cry everyday when I read about a parent’s loss of their child(ren) or best friends/ classmates needless loss and how it has effected their lives by their words of missing them so much. What you are doing is wonderful thing and I have mailed my donation to your drive and rememberance.
One day we will see our loved ones again and I surely hope that your walk is a success in remebering your beautiful children. And I hope the acknowledgment of your drive brings notice to all that can tell their children that they are loved everyday.
God bless,
John K.
The kids had some of the greatest times with Little Lee and Jillie. Sometimes we don’t even know how to speak of all that has happened. We will never forget the beauty of Lee and Jillian. They were truly beautiful. There have been times that the grieving would be silent between us all, but this has helped us to talk, share and understand. We are proud of you for what you are doing. Witnessing what God can do and sharing your faith in suffering helps us all. We can see through reading these comments that lives are being touched. Lee and Jillian touched our lives. Sitting here typing this, I remember so vividly Little Lee being with Luke, Nicole and Ethan-just playing around outside or in the house. They are wonderful memories. Your children brought a smile to many faces, and we have been blessed to have had them in our lives. We love you all and we are supporting you through prayers. We will be walking with you on Mother’s Day.
How can you explain the pain you felt in your heart that droped you to your knees when you are told of the loss of a loved one or close friend.
I started teaching IN-CAR Drivers Education Instruction at a local High School some 25 years ago. I am now a Professional Driver Instructor Trainer.
My students asked me for years to write a book. A few days after the passing of a student at the school from a car crash, I was asked again and I decided that I would.
On April 24 I will be at The Drivers ED. Conference at Nova Southeastern University held by the Doris Slosberg Foundation to get help to add my publication to the Drivers ED. program. In our lives we learn to forgive, as parents, we never forget.
“I’M STILL HERE”, The Diary Of A Driving Instructor. by. J. Myers. .. GOD BLESS
Mr & Mrs. Wagner.
My name is Michael Vinson and I live in Kil Devil Hills, North Carolina. I just recently heard about your story on T.V. and I just wanted you to know that you are in my prayers. I just finished looking over the website and reading the stories, it is a wonderful website and they are so lucky to have loving parents like yourselves to carry on there memory. Take Care .
Michael Vinson
Hi, I wanted to say, I am proud of both of you. I understand it all, as I lost my son 1-1/2 yr ago. He was 17. I am from Columbus as well, and graduated in 1976, I went to Hardaway High. My maiden name was Johnson. I have family still there. I am a RN as well. I graduated in nursing from Ga. Southern. My husband has a trucking business, and has 23 or so trucks. I have a website that describes what I am doing in my son’s memory. It is Road Rules for Reid. http://WWW.roadrulesforreid.com . I go to high schools, colleges, churches and speak about it and pass out cards. I would like to talk to you whenever you get a chance, and would like to link up my website to yours if their is anyway. I am sure you are busy right now but whenever you get time to call or email back I would appreciate it. Good luck, and great idea,
Leigh Webb
April 11, 2008
A Walk to Remember; a reason to give.
I don’t watch much television but I am very thankful that I did tonight. While watching a news program I caught the end of an interview with two parents about the foundation they created to remember their two children tragically killed in an accident and a walk that they are doing to raise money for their scholarship fund.
Two subjects that aways catch my eye, or in this case my ear; a walk and children. As anyone who is a regular reader of mine knows my purpose is to try to help end Obesity and my biggest passion is the health of future generations–our children.
I thought initially that they were talking about one of the Obesity Walks as the gentleman said it would help him get in better shape, they gave the website, http://www.AWalkToRemember.org and asked people to go to it and pledge a donation. I went to it to learn more and make a donation. I looked at the photos of beautiful Jillian and handsome Lee, read about their accident, their parents strength and their community’s love, when I read the story on angels and river rocks, http://awalktoremember.org/angels-and-river-rocks/ I had to share it with everyone I care about.
I have spent the last hour crying, emailing my daughter who ironically and frighteningly drives a Black Jeep Grand Cherokee and urged her to finish writing a Country song she started a year ago when one of her friends died in a car accident.
We have walks for all sorts of causes, we raise money for many charities and many of us do many of the things asked of us for the good of others. Today, many of you, including me probably have green plastic bags filled with toilet paper, shampoo and soap hanging on your front door for the GirlScouts to pick up for their personal goods drive to benefit the needy!
While all of those are great causes, http://www.AWalkToRemember.org is not only a worthy cause to donate your money to, it is something to get involved with. If you are a parent, an aunt, an uncle, a grandparent or a friend of a young person; call them right now. Tell them how very much you love them and urge them to visit this site, attend or schedule a lecture that Lee Wagner gives. Remind them how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken away.
I am going to ask my family to forgo any Mother’s Day gifts or dinner they may be planning and instead donate that money to this cause. What a great Mother’s Day it will be, to be part of the Walk that is absolutely one to remember and to celebrate. God’s Blessing be with you both Lee and Debbie Wagner and may your devotion and love of your children help other’s to remember what is really important in life. I thank you for reminding me.
Don’t take a day for granted and certainly, don’t waste a moment “dieting”. There is so much more to life than the size jeans you are wearing.
Yes, do something about all things in your life that need improving, but don’t waste time.
Sincerely,
Julia Havey
http://www.juliahavey.com/
Hello Debbie,
My name is Amy. I was just watching Nancy Grace and saw your families story.
I think what your husband is doing is a wonderful thing and I believe it will helps your souls as well.
My son Matthew and his father were in an auto accident on April 25, 2004.
My husband was driving and another vehicle came toward them and almost hit them head on. My husband swerved to miss that vehicle and hit a tree.
Our son Matthew, age 9 passed away, way too soon, that say.
I think losing a child is the hardest thing someone could go through.
I have tried for 4 years to find a way to hold an event in his memory and got these answers. You have to open a non profit organization, the lawyer fees alone would cost too much, you can’t start a scholarship fund you should have done that right after the accident.
I still wish I could do something in his memory. He loved to see others happy and help others so I was hoping to do something for others in his memory.
I wanted to do a bike a thon in his memory but was told it would be unsafe in our town then after our mayor passed away they started one in his memory.
I’m hoping that maybe you could help me with any ideas.
Do you think it’s too late to start something like this?
Thank You,
God Bless
Amy
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I am writing you because I am looking at Nancy Grace and just heard of your story. I want to say I am truly sorry to hear about your loss, and I had to write you because what I have been through. I am the oldest of seven children and I too lost a younger brother. And I know it is the toughest thing to get through…
I would like to know more about you all do and if there is anything I can do as well to help other families or families that can help my family for our loss. Our loss has been a long time ago but it is still there and it hurts.
Thank you both for taking the time out to do this for your children as well as other family children.
Alicia
I am so sorry to hear about your loss of Jillian and Lee. I hear from parents all around the country that have lost a teen to teen car crashes all to often. I have a Nation Wide non-profit 501 (c)( (3) called “It Won’t Happen To Me”. It originate here in the Atlanta area four years ago. We are having our second In Memory of Walk-A-Thon this year at Chastain Park. Would love to talk to you about your loss and your efforts to get the word out on this silent tragedy that is occurring all across our country. We have a book that features teen that have died in car crashes that we distribute in programs we do in schools, churches, court mandated programs and through other community programs. Please check out our web site. I would like to send you one of our books. Perhaps you would like to have Jillian and Lee featured in our next edition. We are starting to put the next edition together next month and will be printing this summer before the next school year. Looking forward to hearing from you. Bill
It Won’t Happen To Me, Inc.
A 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization
Dedicated To Reducing The Number One Cause Of Teen Deaths, “Car Crashes”
Details for our 2008 In Memory of Walk-A-Thon will be posted soon.
http://www.itwonthappentome.org
William R. Richardson
President
2645 Youth Monroe Rd.
Monroe, GA 30655
Hi there,
I heard about your family tragedy on cnn and I wanted to write this
email to remind you that you are not alone 😉
I lost someone dear to me in a 1992 accident, and my mother from brain
cancer in l987 before that so I am aquainted with grief.
I’d like to briefly share a few things with you regarding those events.
Some say that you feel your loved ones presense with you even when they
are gone ( the person whom I lost in accident) , and I believe it is
true . I can’t explain it other than to say it was a feeling of that
persons presense but I am sure it was real. On some level for a while it
made me sad, but latre as the grief began to somewhat diminish I
realized it was a gift from God and continues to this day to raise me
up.
Lastly I wanted to share with you my ‘dream’ ( Im honestly not sure what
it was ) I had after my mother passed on. I prayed for nearly 2 weeks
for God to allow me to see her again, and while no proof is available
for this,- what I experienced serves me well as God’s promise of eternal
life. I felt it was real to me, as I’ve never in my entire life felt
such peace as that experience, and it remains to comfort me to this day,
and I feel like I am to share it as well.
May god bless you both as you go forward in life knowing God is with us
always and has your children safe in his presense, and that they likely
watch over you as I feel my mother and friend do me.
Feel free to contact me if you wish I’d be happy to chat with you
anytime.
God bless and comforts
Uncle Lee,
Thinking about you, Jilly and Little Lee, and Debbie, Corey and Elizabeth tonight. Just wanted to remind you how much we all love you and miss you in NC. We are all so proud of you!
Let me know if I can do anything! 🙂
Mackenzie
Lee and Debbie-I just learned of your experience and wanted to extend my deepest sympathies-very shocking! May God continue to bless you with mental and physical strength for your walk and your lives. Sincerely-Lees highshool classmate.
Lee, I graduated from North Davidson with you, I have been away from North Carolina since 1982, but I read the Winston -Salem paper. I read the article that was in there about you and your family 2-3 weeks ago. Wow, my heart goes out to you, and Debbie. It broke my heart to hear about the loss of your children. I admire your courage, but I know that gift only comes from God. You are doing a wonderful thing,with the walk, and your mission work. God knows the plan we do not, but I believe we are here to serve others, and reach others for Christ. I plan to be in Winston-Salem in the fall, I would love to see some old classmates. I will keep in touch. God Bless you and your family, Susan
Dear Lee & Debbie,
I received a phone call last week from Nancy LaBadia asking if I had seen Nancy Grace on 4/11. I had not seen the show, but Nancy told me both of you were on and what A Walk to Remember was about. As the saying goes, “timing is everything”. Lee, you have been on my mind the past few days. As you well know, today 4/22, is three years that Joseph passed away.
I will always remember how kind and generous you were with your time when I reached out to you to help me surprise Joseph with a visit. You were so gracious to pick me up at the airport in Atlanta and drive me to Jasper to be with him. As we started talking on the long drive you said to me, “I know your story” and my response was “I know your story”. Joseph had told me all that had happened to your children and he told you about my husband. He was devastated and so worried about you and Debbie. You could not stay to visit that day because you had to get to church for a tree planting ceremony in memory of your children.
When I found this site I was amazed at all the stories and pictures. As I read the story about you renewing your wedding vows a flood of memories came back to me, as I know Joseph had the necklace made with a lock of Jillian and Lee’s hair. As you gave the eulogy at Joseph’s graveside you talked about it, something I will never forget.
Lee, you were Joseph’s best friend and his guardian angel and you helped make his last wishes become reality. I am sure he, Jillian, and Lee are looking down on both of you and smiling and blessing all that you are doing to help others.
Debbie, I remember speaking to you on the phone and I knew you were a very special person.
Lee, I will never forget you, your thoughtfullness and compassion for Joseph. I am going to send a donation in Joseph’s memory.
May your journey be a success and may God bless you every step of the way.
Sincerely,
Tina Wohltmann
I lost my son on July 24th 2004 to a multi-repeat offender drunk driver.My son was 16. My heart and my prayers go out to the two of you.We are in a fraternity that no parent ever wants to be in but one that you are in for life.I pray that you would continue to daily seek out the Lord and know that He is there. God Bless you always
Stephen
Hi Lee and Debbie:
I am so glad that I had the opportunity to view your website. I found it to be very emotional of course but also so very beautiful and loving that you both have devoted so much of your life now to your beautiful children’s memory. Get the word out there and never stop until your heart tells you to do so. I will make a donation when I get paid on the 5th of this month as I feel so strongly about your struggle. I know you are doing what the kids would want and I know they are so proud of you both. If there is anything I can do in this effort, I am off for the entire summer and would be more than willing to help do anything to help out. After all Debbie has done so much in the years of painful struggle to save my life. Not very many people thought I would be sitting here today writing to you but Pride Medical never gave up on me and Debbie – you were so instrumental in my recovery, my miracle. Good luck to you both and know that you have been in my thoughts and prayers for years now and that will continue unil your misson is complete. Keep up the good work and know that I will send this site to all that I know, especailly those who have kids. If you just save one life then you have done well but I hope and pray that many young lives will be saved for your valient efforts and committment not only to the memory of your wonderful kids but those who will be saved becasue of you both. Again, I am here and willing to help this summer if you need me in any capacity.
With love and respect,
Andy Kerr (Deb’s favorite patinet)
Dear Lee & Debbie,
I’m reading Lee’s blogs this morning. I’m touched by his love, commitment and strength. Please know that others are thinking and praying for you every step of the way. Both of you are amazing.
Love & Blessings,
Joan
Lee,
We hope to join you in church on Sunday. I admire you and Debbie so much. I have lost every member of my family except my two children, Nicole and Jesse. I can only imagine what it must be like. My thoughts and prayers have been with both of you since the accident. You were always so faithful supporting the Craver family with all their sorrows especially the death of Mike, Nicole’s dad. It is very hard for her today, and that has been 15 years ago.
Your Wedding Vows Renewal was beautiful. Continue to do what the Lord lays on your heart. You are touching many lives.
Sincerely,
Cathie Craver Streetman
Lee and Debra, I have sat down numerous times to write but for some reason I couldn’t find the words to express how I felt in my heart. I would read what the others wrote and cry my heart out. Your children were so special and truly made a difference in other’s lives. Your strength, faith, and endurance continue to amaze me. Sharing your story and getting the message out to parents and young people about safe driving and NOT buying SUVs is one you express so passionately. Thank you for standing up for what’s right. Thank you for blessing my life and for all the others you have and will continue to bless…Scooter, Wendell, and Roger, just to name a few. God sends us angels…it’s up to us to recoginize them and that is something you do so beautifully, Lee. I love you both. God Bless! Patti
Dear Lee….
Hi
This is Janine, originally from Action Wear Fabrics in NYC, your old NYC friend
You are so often in my thoughts, as well as your children. A few weeks ago when I turned on the tv, I saw you and your wife speaking of your children and your “walk”. I was astonished to see you on tv! What a wonderful surprise. It was “kismet” that I saw you, and immediately called my mother to tell her to put on the channel. She was already watching it. It wasn’t until I jolted her memory did she remember the story of your children. I could have easily missed the program.
I tried to reach you on your cell phone last week, to wish you a wonderful walk and experience. I must have the wrong number. What you are doing is truly magical. You were always a very special person!
If you ever get to NY, I would like to see you and hear all about your memory walk and catch up with you. Please call me when you can. It would really mean alot to me.
All my very best,
Janine (Bonadonna) Silverman
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I just read about your walk in the Salisbury Post and I was so touched by your story and your diligence in remembering your children. I just lost my daughter at birth in February of this year, and I cannot imagine the pain you have endured losing both of your children.
May God Bless you on your journey and I am sure that your children are up in Heaven watching down with pride for their loving parents.
Heather Ward
Salisbury NC
I am sorry for your devastating loss. Thank you for sharing their lives. They are in a better place. God loves you and so do I. Keep your head up. You are so strong.
Hi Lee,
I’ve remembered you each morning in my prayers that God will watch over you as you make this journey. You’ve almost made it! Cathy (that I work with) saw you while you were walking in Lexington and was so excited to tell me about it. I’ll see you Saturday at ND.
May God Bless You,
Shelly
I live in Salisbury, NC and saw the article in the local newspaper about your Walk for your children! I can’t imagine what it has been like to have lost your children! My heart hurts for you! I have lost a lot of family in my life and I hold on to my children everyday and cherish the time that I have with them! You never know! It is good to see that you have God’s seed in your heart! It doesn’t take the pain away, but it does give you the promise that one day you will be home with your children! Lee, stay strong! Debra, know that this Mother’s Day that you have your wonderful angels in heaven and they are safe from harm and that God chose you as their Mom! Celebrate the memories! Thank you for sharing your loss. I will be one Mom that will love my children even more through your loss! Take care!
Heart wrenching story – Debbie & Lee Wagner
Terri, Thanks for sending this story about Lee & Debbie’s children to me. I admire both of them,not only for being able to function with the lose of children,but to be able to put this effort into a project that will benifit others in remembrance of their kids.I love you and thanks again
Gary D.
P.S. I also made a contribution and said a prayer for them.
Thanks for allowing me to learn alittle about your kids. I read your story in the Independent Tribune. I think very highly of you and you wife. I read about the crosses on your trip to Dothan,Al. We took a trip there and I will never forget that road with all the crosses. When you wrote how your kids prayed for the other families it really hit me because I did the same. I just remember thinking of all the people and there families. You are in my prayers and I will never forget this story. It makes me think twice about been a mother and how lucky I am.
Dear Lee, Debbie and family,
This Mother’s Day, we will be thinking about Jillian and Lee jr..We want you to know just how inspiring your memorial is to so many people. This personal loss reminds us to just love and show love everyday to the people around us. Thank you for sharing.
Ama and John
Columbus, Georgia friends
Lee, Debra, Corey, and Patricia,
Wish we could be there with you Sunday when you finish your walk. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You are remarkable! We love you! God Bless.
Patti and Becki
Dear Lee and Debbie,
I can hardly believe it’s been four years since that fateful day. I just wanted you to know you have been in my thoughts and prayers today. Take care! Love always, your cousin Erik B.
Dear Debbie and Lee – I have refrained from writing until now because what can anyone say that can ease your pain. I have watched Debbie (or DJ as I often refer to Debbie since there are just too many Debbie’s in our practice) come in and work with our patients. And I simply don’t know how you have the strength to get up each morning — much less drive an hour in the traffic. You and Lee are inspirations and active disciples of Christ. Like Job, you have endured the worse and come through it loving our Lord and trusting even more. Even before the birth of Christ Plato wrote that “the soul takes flight to the world that is invisible where it dwells forever in bliss.” So we must firmly believe that we will be united with those we love. I believe that Jilly and Lee are your special angels — looking down with approval on all that you are doing to give meaning to their deaths.
Thank you for being my friends and my inspiration of Christ’s work on this earth.
Sincerely, Pam Richards
Dear Lee and Debbie,
I just read your summary of May 11, 2008 on the web-site. I truly believe you have a story to tell in book form. Nicole, Jesse and myself were there Sunday at church. We sat with Tom & Gail Hill & family. My heart continues to be heavy for both of you. Shelly Gentle and I work together so we often talk about your faith and commitment to a wonderful
memory. I don’t think the Lord is going to let this be the end of your story; it is just the beginning. Too many lives have been touched and blessed by your actions and words. May God Bless you both.
Sincerely,
Cathie
Lee,
My heart breaks for you and your wife each time I hear or read of this unspeakable tragedy. I alway knew that your children would be your life.
Remembeer there are many people from long ago past who are praying for you.
Your old friend,
June
Hi Lee, I am sorry that it did not work out for me to participate/help with the walk at NDHS, like I had originally planned. To see how it all turned out is a true blessing. Keith and I helped with the Bethesda UMC youth during the times that Jillie and Little Lee attended. They were both hilarious people and a joy to be around. I’ll never be able to think of the game “Chubby Bunny” the same again after seeing Jillie win on one of our youth retreats! It seemed like Little Lee’s goal in life was to make people laugh – which he succeeded to do all the time! I read about your journey through this walk and it’s amazing to think of all the lives that have been changed by meeting you during your walk and/or hearing about the walk. God placed this idea in your mind and it’s wonderful that you chose to act on it, rather than missing an opportunity to touch others through God’s love. Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path.”
Lee and Debbie:
Both of you are very special people you will never know the lives the both of you have touched in the past few months as you delivered your (“ A Walk To Remember”) message.
As I patrol the roads of Davidson County I often (several times per week) patrol around the grounds of Bethesda, and as I ride by our cemetery it brings back fond memories of the good times Jillian and “Little” Lee had with my girls Kelli and Kerri as they were growing up.
Back in May 2004 I asked myself (“Why Lord”) Why Jillian and Lee (although I know we should never ask why). After listening to Lee deliver his strong message several weeks ago at Bethesda, and listening to the both of you on Nancy Grace it has helped me to understand Gods mysterious actions.
“As” my father in-law Rueben told me (One Day We All Will Know and Understand “WHY”!!!)
Sincerely, Brian Grubb
Lee
I hope this message finds you well. How was your walked ?
I just want to let you know that you are a person that makes a difference in this world.
Sometimes we don’t realize that we live among angels and you are one of them
It feels good to say I know Lee Wagner lll
Take care
Best Regards.
Guillermo.
Dear Debbie & Lee,
Just wanted to say happy birthday to Little Lee on this special day to both of you. I think of You “both” @ times during difficult times of my life when things aren’t going the way I think they should go and you all come into my mind. I hope this day is a bright and special day for both of you.i will never forget awalktoremember.org. A Great Memorial to Lee & Jillian and the other parents it has helped.
Thanks to you both.
God bless
Lenny Heacock
God bless.
Lenny Heacock
Hope to see you all soon!
Lenny Heacock
I LUV THIS SITE YOU CREATED FOR JILL AND LEE ITS AMAZING !!!! I MISS THEM SO MUCH I ALWAYS GO BY AND VISIT THEM AT THERE GRAVE AND I ALWAYS FIND MY SELF TALKING TO HER STILL OR PICKING UP THE PHONE TO CALL HER ITS STILL HARD TO THIS DAY BUT THANK YOU MR WAGNER FOR THIS SITE IT MAKES MY HEART SMILE KNOWING THEY STILL LIVE ON FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS !!! IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR YOURS OR DEBBIES EMAIL SO IF YOU READ THIS PLEASE SEND ME YOURS IT J_KEDMONDS@YAHOO.COM LOTS OF LUV
Thinking of you today on Little Lee’s B’day~
Love,
Joan
Mr. and Mrs. Wagner,
Just wanted to let you know that I still think of Jill and Lee all the time and still miss having Jill in my life. I think of you all often and how you all are doing. I don’t have yall’s number anymore. My email is thatgurlchelsie@yahoo.com. Hope you all are doing well!
Love,
Chelsie