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After his passing, Je'Sani Smith's brother accepts honorary diploma

Terrance Denson received his brother's diploma during the Richard King High School graduation ceremony

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Weeks after King High School student Je'Sani Smith drowned in the ocean, his family honored him during graduation. 

RELATED: Vigil held at King High School for drowning victim

Je'Sani was set to walk the stage as a part of King's 2019 Senior Class. Instead, the high school and CCISD allowed Smith's little brother Terrance Denson, to accept his diploma.

"I just felt very happy because I'm glad that they all got along with Je'sani," he said. 

Before the speaker could even utter 'Terrance' the crowd exploded. Terrance Denson said he wasn't nervous, just excited to see all the lives that his older brother touched. 

Denson walked the stage dressed head to toe like a graduating senior. His parents said they are forever grateful that Je'sani was honored in such a poignant way.

"We are here in honor of Je'Sani but we certainly do miss him," Kiwana Denson said. 

Although he may be young, Terrance shared adult-like gratitude before leaving the American Bank Center. 

"Thank you for praying for us, thanking you for supporting us."

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