JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — An exceptional student was recognized in a moving tribute at the First Coast High School graduation for the Class of 2025 on Friday.

Marques Rodriguez is remembered as someone with a beautiful soul who loved to sing and brought joy and laughter to everyone around him.

During the ceremony for the Class of 2025 at First Coast High School, Marques’ parents crossed the stage to receive an honorary diploma in their son’s memory. 

School officials called Marques an “eternal Buccaneer,” which is the school’s mascot.

Marques was on track to graduate with his peers in 2025, but tragically lost his life in a car accident in June 2023 at the age of 16. He had recently finished his sophomore year.

Ten days from Sunday will mark two years since Marques’ death, his family said.

While Marques’ time at the school was cut short, his impact on his classmates, teachers and faculty is long-lasting.

“Though his time with us was far too short, his spirit and legacy will forever shine bright in our hearts,” First Coast High School said in a post on social media. “As we remember him today, let’s hold onto the moments we shared and the impact he made on our lives.”

Marques’ mother, Jonalyn Rodriguez, told First Coast News she was thankful to the school’s principal, superintendent and the senior class for keeping his memory alive.

She said her son had a passion for singing and fell in love with being a part of his high school’s chorus group. Last year, the choir paid tribute to Marques during the group’s spring concert.

Jonalyn Rodriguez said her son’s love for singing inspired his family to create a scholarship under his name for students who shared his love for the arts. The Marques D. Rodriguez Memorial Scholarship is available to any Florida high school senior involved in an arts program.

Marques is buried at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. His father and brother are both actively serving in the military.