Hundreds gather for candlelight vigil to remember Rep. John Lewis

ATLANTA — The memorial at Congressman John Lewis’ mural continues to grow in the days after his death.

On Sunday night, hundreds of people gathered downtown at the mural for a candlelight vigil.

Channel 2′s Audrey Washington was at the vigil, where people shared fond memories of the civil rights icon. Just about everyone had a story to share, something they’ll remember about Rep. Lewis.

Washington spoke with Charlotte Dean, who has lived in Atlanta all of her life and remembers the day Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Dean teared up as she told Washington that this loss feels like that day.

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“He was a part of Martin Luther King,” Dean said. “He had the same beliefs as King, and it was like we lost Martin Luther King all over again to me.”

Washington spoke to local chef Kenneth Willhoite, who said he had the honor of cooking for Lewis several times and thanked God for the opportunity. He described Lewis as humble and down-to-earth.

“He was just like everybody else,” Willhoite said. “He liked his chicken, his barbecue, his macaroni and cheese, collard greens and cornbread.”

Both Dean and Willhoite said it's time to continue Lewis' fight for justice.

“He’s paved the way. He’s laid the ground work,” Willhoite said. “We don’t need to recreate the wheel. All we have to do is step up. We need someone to step up and take his place. That’s what’s expected of us right now.”

?He fought until the end. That was my big brother? John Lewis? family speaks for 1st time On the steps of the family?s home in South Fulton, John Lewis? youngest brother spoke on behalf of the family.

Cox Media Group