A tribute and funeral service for Edward Sotomayor Jr., known by family and friend as “Top Hat” Eddie, will held on Saturday, June 25, at Robarts Arena.
Sotomayor was the first victim identified in the shooting at an Orlando club early Sunday, where 49 people were killed. His memorial service will be a celebration of his life, according to Al Ferguson, a friend of Sotomayor’s and owner of ALandChuck’s Travel where he worked.
The public memorial service begins at 2 p.m. at the arena located at 3000 Ringling Boulevard in Sarasota. After the service, attendees may follow family and friends to MCC King of Peace Church, 3150 5th Avenue North, St Petersburg, where there will be refreshments, and then a “Walk for Top Hat Eddie” to the St. Pete Pride Parade.
Those participating in the St. Pete event are asked to wear a white T-shirt and bring a white candle. If you have it, wear a black top hat to celebrate Eddie’s “magical” life.
The walk is a tribute to the 49 people who died in the Orlando club shooting and 53 others injured.
The pride parade begins with the Saturday Block Part at 5 p.m. between 22nd Street and 27th Street along Central Avenue, and features DJs, food and beverages. The parade will begin at sunset, according to the events Facebook page.
Contributions are being accepted on a GoFundMe page for the family of Eddie Sotomayor Jr. to help them pay for the funeral and other expenses the family may incur following his death.
