Tears, Laughter Spread as Family, Friends Mourn Jessica Morales

Among the tears and sorrow that spread throughout Church of the Highlands tonight during the funeral Mass for Jessica Morales sprang up laughter, clapping and even a cheer.

Family and friends filled the church's sanctuary to celebrate the 20-year-old's life, often crying and laughing at the same time while bringing up fond memories of a young woman remembered for her bubbly personality.

Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Hillsborough, Vice Mayor Rico Medina, Councilman Michael Salazar and members of the San Bruno Fire Department were also in the audience.

After Church of the Highlands Pastor Leighton Sheley opened up the service by singing "Amazing Grace" and Morales' mother, Rene, gave a heartfelt speech recalling a daughter who was "more like an angel," family and friends told stories of how Jessica was known for being sincere and making people laugh.

Luisa Sicairos, Jessica's best friend, read a quote about friendship before recalling how inseparable the two friends were. Jessica loved going to the beach, eating ice cream at Cold Stone at Pier 39 and, of course, shopping, Sicairos said. 

One time, she said, Jessica called her with an urgent message while she was working at Lunardi's. Sicairos said she couldn't immediately take the call because she was at work as well. But as soon she got a chance, she called Jessica back, only to find Jessica crying because her $80 boots got messed up in the store's bathroom.

These were the type of "girly girl" moments by which Sicairos said she would remember Jessica.

"She shook my quiet little life with laughter and tears," Sicairos said as the audience broke out in laughter.

At the end of the prayerful, God-centered service, Martin Cantu and members of the contemporary Christian group L-Rey sang an original song, "Hold Me," that they performed at Friday's vigil.

Rene Morales said the song reminded her of a vision she had shortly after where God was holding her daughter's hand and telling her that she was at peace.

Before the song, Cantu said he connected with that vision so much that Jessica would now live forever in the words of the song each time it is sung.

Then he led the audience in giving her a big round of applause.