Breathitt County schools close to honor Jayden Spicer: ‘Healing takes a community’

JACKSON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Breathitt County Schools will not be in session on Thursday, Aug 21.

School officials issued the notice on Wednesday afternoon.

“This Thursday (8.21.2025), in honor of the memory of Jayden Spicer, our school will be closed to give students, staff, and families the time and space to grieve, reflect, and support one another. We encourage everyone to wear blue or their favorite superhero attire as a tribute to Jayden—symbols of strength, hope, and resilience,” the notice reads.

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Jayden Spicer was reported missing by his mother, Felicia Gross, and stepfather, Joshua Gross, on Wednesday, Aug. 6. After an exhaustive search lasting nearly a week, Kentucky State Police said that Jayden’s mother came forward to lead investigators to where she allegedly buried her son. Both Felicia and Joshua face charges in connection with his death.

Judge Executive Jeff Noble proclaimed Aug. 21 as “Jayden Spicer Day” in Breathitt County as family and friends prepare to lay the boy to rest. Breathitt Funeral Home announced in his obituary that a visitation would be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, with a funeral following at 2 p.m. He will be laid to rest at his grandmother’s feet in the Molands Cemetery in Canoe, per funeral home staff.

“Please continue to hold Jayden’s family, friends, and our entire school community in your thoughts and prayers. Let us stand together, uplift one another, and offer comfort as we navigate this loss—side by side. We recognize that healing takes a community, and whether through a shared memory, a quiet moment, or simply being present, your support makes a difference,” school officials wrote.

All area first responders are invited to join the funeral procession to light up Breathitt County in Jayden’s favorite colors, red and blue.

School officials announced that classes will resume on Friday as scheduled.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone back with care and compassion as we continue to support one another. Resources will be available for anyone in need when school resumes,” Breathitt County Schools said.