This is Joel. I was editing this for photography—before I found out that he died. He was so photogenic, and so beautiful.
Thank you Ben for sharing this beautiful image with the world. Joel was a character like no other. Just before reblogging this, Alice and I were talking about how I wanted to remember Joel on my tumblr. But the problem is there’s just no amount of words that could describe the amazing aura he had. Someone needs to invent a new word to sum up Joel’s incredible energy and positivity and kindness and how he infected everyone with that smile.
I was by no means one of Joel’s closest friends but I spent enough time with him to be touched by his unique personality. I can’t think of someone else who was so genuine and sweet and funny and never felt the need to try and be anyone but himself. That’s one of the reason’s why so many people have been affected by what’s happened, because he was real and never had a bad word to say about anyone. He was always there with his unprejudiced mind, good advice and hilarious jokes. So many people have said how he helped them through any troubles or hard times they had, that was the kind of guy he was. He made people laugh, he made people happy and I think the last couple of days everyone has felt a piece of their life has been taken away. Whether that be as an acquaintance, a friend or a relative, so many people will always remember Joel as a beautiful soul who had a huge impact on more lives then he could have ever imagined.
Going home the other day to lay flowers for you made me remember the time I spent with you and how much you will be missed by everyone. You always listened and always made me smile, the world has lost a true diamond. Rest in peace Joel Ashely Semmens, the brightest star in the sky.
<3
