Nationwide — Roshaunda Carr, an African American mother from Waco, Texas, whose daughter died from epilepsy in 2024, walked across the graduation stage wearing her daughter’s cap and gown, honoring her memory during University High School’s Class of 2025 ceremony.
Her daughter, Jakayla Gardner Carr, had lived with epilepsy since she was 11. Despite the challenges, Jakayla excelled in school and was set to graduate alongside her sister, Aniyah.
But on the morning of October 6, 2024, she died in her sleep after suffering a seizure. Carr recalled texting Jakayla that morning to remind her to take her medication. When she got no response, she went to check on her and found her unresponsive.
During the graduation ceremony, Roshaunda walked in Jakayla’s place, her daughter’s photo pinned to the gown. The crowd cheered, and some cried.
“It’s bittersweet,” Carr told WLBT. “Jakayla is the first out of her siblings to graduate, so today is just a lot of emotions.”
Since her daughter’s death, Carr has been working to preserve Jakayla’s legacy. She plans to start a nonprofit in her daughter’s name and is currently seeking volunteers to help make it happen.
“She’s very, very proud. She’s probably behind me doing a silly dance as we do the interview. She’s proud,” Carr said.
Carr ended the night with a message to her daughter: “I love you. Mama loves you. You did it. Congratulations, baby girl.”