Friends of 36-year-old Thomas Kirby shared memories of him as a warm person who was always smiling.
One woman told our partner Action News through tears that Kirby was always a cheerful person to be around.
"He was always smiling. Just a happy-go-lucky person."
A memorial is now growing at the site where Kirby's body was found Saturday at an abandoned home in Northwest Jacksonville.
His friends tell our partner Action News they believe he was targeted because of his sexual orientation. However, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has not release a motive or any specific details of Kirby's death.
According to the JSO Facebook page, foul play is suspected due to the trauma on his body and other indicators at the scene. At this time, investigators are trying to determine if the victim may have been killed somewhere else.
Kirby's friends also believe he may have known his killer.
Authorities are asking for anyone with information to come forward to police or Crimestoppers. But Kirby's friends believe whoever is responsible will eventually be found.
"Trust and believe you're going to get caught."
JTA released a statement saying their prayers are with his family and friends.
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