Only On 8: Grieving family seeking help to bury 6-year-old killed in Henrico crash

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A Highland Springs family is sharing their story about their beloved 6-year-old boy, Justus Lee, who was killed in a car crash in Henrico's East End Sunday night.

In an exclusive interview, Justus' family said they hope the generosity of Central Virginians and beyond can help them properly bury their beloved boy.

"It's been really tough," Justus's father, Joshua Lee, said.

The tragic two-vehicle crash took place at about 8:18 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 18, along Interstate 64 East near the Nine Mile Road exit. According to Virginia State Police, a driver lost control while on their phone and hit the central guardrail.

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The driver of the second vehicle ran off the side of the road trying to avoid the initial crash. Justus, who was in the rear of the vehicle and not wearing a seatbelt, was partially ejected through the rear passenger-side window. He sadly died as a result of his injuries.

No words could fully describe the pain Justus' family is feeling. Alongside with Joshua Lee, Justus's brother, Sir Holmes, and his uncle, Mathew Lee, told 8News about the infectious smile and energy Justus had.

"He was one — if not the biggest ... one of the biggest pieces to us being together, being a harmonious family," Joshua Lee said.

"My favorite memories are watching movies with him, playing with his toys ... Just running around the house," Holmes added.

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The family now has to plan a funeral instead of these memorable playtimes. Central Virginians can help their neighbors by donating to the family's GoFundMe, allowing them to pay for the proper "goodbye."

Justus' family said that one positive thing that's come out of such a negative situation is the immense support they've seen from their neighbors.

"It just means so much to us, the love that we're getting from the community, the family -- and just the outreach from social media," Mathew Lee said.

While Justus had been taken away from us too soon, his positivity leaves behind something we can all learn: being kinder to ourselves and others.

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"We got this affirmation that we say," Joshua Lee said. "I tell him: 'I'm smart. I'm handsome. I'm a good boy. I'm a big boy. I'm a king.' He said it every day."