James “Jimmy” Gracey, a junior at the University of Alabama, vanished March 17, 2026, while in Barcelona on spring break visiting friends who are studying abroad.

University of Alabama student Jimmy Gracey, who died while on a spring break trip in Spain, is being remembered as a light who was kind, vibrant and full of life.

“He showed up for people, always making others feel seen and valued,” according to a fundraising site launched to help his family with burial, travel expenses, and a future memorial or scholarship fund.

“He loved his family deeply, was a loyal friend and teammate, and was admired for his faith, love of Jesus and the way he carried himself,” the everloved.com site reads.

Gracey, 20, vanished March 17 in Barcelona while out with friends.

His body was recovered from the water two days later, close to the breakwater that separates Port Olimpic from Somorrostro Beach.

Authorities have said his death appears to be accidental.

A Memorial Mass was held Monday night at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish in Tuscaloosa as students returned to campus following spring break.

His fraternity, Theta Chi, will hold a vigil tonight at 7 p.m. at the fraternity’s house. Gracey served as chaplain and philanthropy chairman

“His passing has left a deep ache in the hearts of all who knew and loved him,” the site reads. “The outpouring of support during the search for Jimmy was a testament to the impact he had on so many lives.”

“Now, as that search ends and the grieving begins, we want to surround his family with that same love and support.”

“As his mother tries to make sense of this unimaginable loss, she remembers the power of Jimmy’s hug: He had the longest arms. So much longer than normal,” according to everloved.com. “She had to buy him custom suits because he had arms like a gorilla. When he used those arms to hug you, he pulled you into his soul.”

“The only thing that brings her peace is to think that in that final moment, God Himself knew he needed a Jimmy hug,” it reads. “God needed to feel his love so he took him from us.”

Gracey was last seen between 3 a.m. and 3:40 a.m. March 17 at a popular tourist club . He remained at the club after the friend he was with returned to their Airbnb.

His family said it was “completely out of character” for him not to check in with family and friends.

A massive search was launched.

Newspaper El Pais reported that several cameras in the area captured the moment Gracey fell into the sea.

“Officers reviewed the security camera footage from establishments located near Somorrostro Beach and interviewed several witnesses, who indicated that the young man had walked toward the breakwater alone,” El Pais reported.

Spanish newspaper El Periodico reported Friday that the preliminary autopsy report ruled out foul play, “suggesting instead that he accidentally fell into the sea and drowned.”

“From there, he fell into the sea,” according to the newspaper. “Based on this information, the search operation—conducted by the Mossos’ Aquatic and Underwater Units, with support from the Barcelona Fire Department and the Civil Guard—focused its search for the student at this specific location.”

Gracey’s family released this statement following the discovery: “We are so grateful for the kindness and concern that has been shown for our family during this incredibly difficult time. We have made the decision to pause media interviews at this time to focus on being together and caring for one another. Thank you for respecting our privacy and holding our family in your thoughts and prayers.”

The University of Alabama urged students affected by Gracey’s death and in need of counseling to call at 205-348-5454.

“Jimmy’s loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our condolences are with the Gracey family during this devastating time,” a statement from the university read.

“The University has been in close contact with the family throughout the week and will continue to provide support to them and to Jimmy’s friends, classmates, and all members of our community who are affected by this tragedy.”