Tributes continue to pour in from the Christian and Gospel community following the death of TobyMac Diverse City member Gabe Patillo.
Patillo, a multi-talented man who by age ten, was dancing onstage alongside DC Talk, passed away following a battle with cancer.
TobyMac quickly took to social media to let the world know how much he respected Gabe.
"I wish everyone knew Gabe Patillo," said TobyMac in a post on social media. "I wish everyone could walk with him, get challenged by him, collaborate with him, laugh with him, pray with him, meditate on scripture with him and be loved by him."
The Newsboys also reacted, saying it was like losing a brother as Gabe had become part of their touring family.
"His loss is a loss that is felt far and wide because that’s how he loved others," said the Newsboys in a post on Facebook.
Terrian, also a TobyMac Diverse City member, says she struggles to believe this is a reality.
"The memories of joy, laughter, honesty, the dancing, being in the studio, being on stage, just all of it," said Terrian. "They’re flooding in, and I’m heartbroken and upset that you’re gone. Life will not be the same without you. Ian and I love you, Jenni, and the kids deeply. You guys mean the world to us."
The Gospel Music Association, which Gabe's mother, Jackie Patillo, is president of, was the first to announce Patillo's death. They said the entire GMA staff knew and loved Gabe like family.
"He will be hugely missed. We know heaven is rejoicing but are praying for Jesus to be near to the many friends and family who loved Gabriel so very much."
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Gabe's family as they move forward without him.
All funds raised will go to help his wife, Jenni, navigate financial items such as medical, living and educational expenses.
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