Almost a year ago, 17-year-old Jordan Brooks died from what authorities say was severe neglect at the hands of his mother and stepfather. They are now facing charges including manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide.

Oswego County community members came together Saturday night to remember Jordan. 

Teachers, students and community members gathered at Mexico High School where Jordan Brooks attended class, to honor his life. Many there say he was a joy to be around. 

"Wherever he was, he just spread love, he was just an inspirational person," said one of Jordan's former teacher's at the memorial.

Jordan had cerebral palsy.  A parent of another student with a disability says his son and Jordan were in the same class.

"From all the stories that I’ve heard, his personality was just a kind, loving kid that had a great sense of humor, loved sarcasm and was just really focused on helping others and took great joy in that," said parent David Manley.

One of Jordan’s former teachers reflected on the time he participated in the Special Olympics, saying how much fun Jordan had.

"Everyone in the entire school was out on the sidewalk cheering him on, welcoming him back, big signs up. He was just cheering, arms in the air. He was laughing, just an amazing vision that I am able to keep in my head," reflected Jordan's former teacher.

Those who knew him say Jordan’s laugh and smile was contagious, and that it could make a bad day better.

"Once you got that, you could go through the whole day. Jordan was just terrific from the time I met him, when he moved over here from the middle school," said a worker from the school.

Oswego County residents are saddened that another child has died from neglect, and say they want to see a change in the system. However, they say the work starts in the community.

"The community being more in tuned with helping others and helping caregivers that are overwhelmed and needing help but don’t where to turn. Could be a real way for the community to impact that," said Manley.