Social media networks help family, friends grieve OCCC student

Knight couldn't bear to talk about her emotions after Hendricks was killed in a car accident Sunday, so she turned to Facebook to express her thoughts.

"I will never forget you and I'll see you again someday in Heaven," Knight wrote on Hendricks' Facebook page. "Thank you for always being such an amazing friend."

During the past three days, Hendricks' friends, family and classmates at Oklahoma City Community College have posted hundreds of memories and notes on his Facebook page. Some are intimate notes directed to Hendricks. Others offer support to his family and fiancee.

Technology is transforming the way many people, especially younger generations, grieve or express their condolences, psychologists said. Social media networks, like Facebook, are helping to connect loved ones during times of loss. Sites that belonged to people who pass away often become like a shrine or an online memorial, counselors said.

Hendricks, 19, was a sophomore at Oklahoma City Community College. He was the incoming editor of The Pioneer, OCCC's student newspaper. Friends and family remember his good humor, faith, pranks and compassion. Many of them have shared photos or posted links to tribute songs on his Facebook page.

Wayne Hendricks, Ethan's father, has read every message, often through tears. He said his family has been overwhelmed by the show of support on Facebook.

"I can't begin to describe what it's done for our hearts and our souls," Hendricks said.

The family plans to print the messages and save them, Wayne Hendricks said.

Philip Hendricks, Ethan's brother, has posted several Facebook messages to his brother, who was also his best friend.