Funeral set for slain TV cameraman in Virginia hometown

Members of the Salem High school football team arrive to remember alumnus WDBJ-TV cameraman Adam Ward, as mourners hug at Salem High School in Salem, Va., Monday, Aug. 31, 2015. Ward and reporter Alison Parker were gunned down by a former co-worker during a live shot last week. Salem High School opened its doors to the community Monday to commemorate the life of alumnus Ward. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) Members of the Salem High school football team arrive to remember alumnus WDBJ-TV cameraman Adam Ward, as mourners hug at Salem High School in Salem, Va., Monday, Aug. 31, 2015. Ward and reporter Alison Parker were gunned down by a former co-worker during a live shot last week. Salem High School opened its doors to the community Monday to commemorate the life of alumnus Ward. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

By Associated Press September 1, 2015 4 min read

ROANOKE, Va. (AP) – Adam Ward was remembered at a reception at his high school for his infectious personality, youthful enthusiasm and rabid love for alma mater Virginia Tech.

On Tuesday, friends and family will say goodbye to the WDBJ-TV cameraman.

The 27-year-old’s funeral will be held at First Baptist Church in Roanoke, a few miles from where he worked.

Ward and WDBJ morning reporter Alison Parker were fatally shot by a former co-worker on live television during an interview last Wednesday.

The funeral will be in contrast to Monday’s visitation, which resembled a celebration at Salem High School, where Ward graduated in 2007. Ward’s parents exchanged greetings, hugs and even a few smiles with many of the well over 1,000 mourners, while upbeat music piped softly into the school auditorium.