OGDEN, Utah (KUTV) — Family and friends are holding a candlelight vigil tonight at 7 p.m. to honor Jody W. Thackeray, 68, and his daughter, Desiree S. Thackeray, 40, killed in a crash on I-215.
The vigil will take place at 834 27th St. in Ogden. Organizers invite the community to attend, stating, “Please join us as we come together to celebrate the beautiful lives of Desiree and Jody ‘Pops' Thackeray.”
Jody and Desiree died on Aug. 25 when their 2005 Jaguar S-Type was rear-ended by a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek while traveling southbound on I-215 near 2300 North. The impact caused their vehicle to collide with a 2024 Ford F-150. Authorities reported that the crash forced a closure of the highway for approximately four hours as investigators worked at the scene. The accident remains under investigation.
The vigil is alcohol-free, allowing attendees to light candles, share memories, and provide support to those grieving.
In addition to the emotional toll, the family faces financial challenges, as Jody was the primary caregiver for two dependent individuals. A fundraiser initiated by relatives aims to cover funeral costs for Jody and Desiree, as well as recovery expenses for the survivors, Joseph Vigil and Rico Montanez, both of whom were involved in the crash and are expected to undergo extensive recovery.
The vigil is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring candles and memories to share.