Bishop T.D. Jakes will deliver the eulogy. Rev. Al Sharpton to give special remarks.
Jefferson’s tragic death came weeks after a Dallas officer was convicted of murder and sentenced to 10 years in prison for killing a Black man who lived in the same apartment complex. Jefferson’s funeral will pay tribute to her life as a loving daughter, sister and aunt.
“It is clear that the atrocity of this shooting opens up deep wounds that preceded this recent murder case that resonates far beyond our community,” remarked Jakes, senior pastor of The Potter’s House. “As a resident of Fort Worth myself, I understand the pain and anger associated with this tragic loss, however, the family has asked that the funeral not be overshadowed by her death but rather that the legacy of Atatiana Jefferson be honored and celebrated for the fullness of her life.”
Former Dallas Maverick Harrison Barnes and his wife will pay for Jefferson’s funeral.
Jefferson was shot dead in her home Oct. 12 while watching her 8-year old nephew. Her killer, Officer Aaron Dean, responded to a police dispatch call after Jefferson’s neighbor requested a wellbeing check. Dean’s bodycam video revealed that he never identified himself as an officer before he shot Jefferson through a window. Days later, Dean resigned from the force. He has been charged with murder and was released from jail on a $200,000 bond.