University of Alabama fraternity brother found dead in Spain remembered as ‘warrior of Christ’

Jimmy Gracey, a University of Alabama student who was found dead in Barcelona, and other unnamed individuals in an undated photo. (Theta Chi University of Alabama)

Fraternity brothers are mourning James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student remembered for his servant leadership and “profound faith,” which chapter leaders said inspired others to walk with Christ.

Gracey disappeared early Tuesday during a spring break trip in Spain. His body was recovered in Barcelona Thursday after a desperate, days-long search by his fraternity brothers and local authorities.

University of Alabama Theta Chi Alpha Phi Chapter president Cavin McLay released an emotional statement Thursday night saying “there are no words to describe the pain of losing our beloved brother, Jimmy.”

“He was a man of profound faith who walked with Christ in all facets of his life, and he inspired every one of us to do the same,” McLay said. “As our Chapter Chaplain, Jimmy closed every chapter meeting in prayer, bringing us together in a way that reflected exactly who he was and how deeply he was loved and respected.”

McLay added Gracey “always went out of his way for anyone who needed him, whether that was guidance in their faith, a shoulder to lean on, or simply to share a smile and laugh with.”

“He was always asking how your day was going and thinking about the people around him,” McLay said. “His smile and attitude were infectious and such a light in our chapter. I can say without hesitation that I am a better person for having known him.”

The fraternity president described Gracey as a “role model, warrior of Christ, and the kind of man every one of us should aspire to be,” saying the Alabama brothers were blessed to have him in their lives.

“His faith inspires us to live a life sharing the love of the Lord, and his impact on this chapter and every individual within it is too great to articulate,” McLay said. “To say Jimmy will be deeply missed is an understatement. … We find comfort in the wisdom of John 16:22: ‘Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again, and you will rejoice.’”

Michael J. Mayer, chief executive officer of the Theta Chi Fraternity, emphasized that Gracey, who also served as a Philanthropy Chairman, embodied exactly what the organization aspires to build: a “Resolute Man.”

Mayer also praised the fraternity brothers who spent days searching the streets of Spain for Gracey, acknowledging that the harrowing ordeal has been “profoundly traumatic” for the young men involved.

“We are heartbroken for Jimmy’s family and ask all who loved him to join us in praying for them — not just in the days ahead, but long after the headlines have faded,” Mayer said.

Theta Chi plans to announce ways to honor Gracey’s life and legacy in the coming days.