This book is a touching memoir by Glenda D. Marsh, who shares her heartbreaking journey
after losing her son, Jeffery “J.J.” Thomas, in a police incident. This book honors his life,
love, and the mother’s unwavering fight for justice, faith, and family.
This book contains several powerful chapters that walk you through the events surrounding the tragic
incident. Each chapter offers a deeper understanding of the moments leading up to and following the
life-changing event, shedding light on the pain, resilience, and pursuit of justice that define this story.
All of it began on September 20, 1997. That was the day my life changed forever, the day my sweet little boy, Jeffery J.J., was born. Weighing 7.10 pounds, J.J. entered the world with a presence that seemed almost larger than life.
J.J. loved being a father more than anything in the world. It didn’t matter what his little girl was doing—whether she was making a mess in the house, standing on him with her tiny feet, dancing around with endless energy, or being loud enough to shake the walls—he cherished every moment.
For the officer who took my son’s life, I wonder every single day how he can just live with himself. How does he go about his life, knowing that he took the life of an innocent man, a child of God? Does he think it’s okay to take someone’s child away and carry on as if nothing happened? The pain of losing my son is unbearable, and I always find myself struggling with the thought of forgiveness.
I was born on August 30, 1978, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and now reside in Cleveland, Tennessee. I am a woman of strong faith, and my relationship with God is my source of strength and guidance. I am blessed with three sons and five grandchildren, all of whom I love deeply.
Since 2015, I’ve worked my way up from being a housekeeper to becoming a manager, a position I’ve held for over a decade. Life has not been without its challenges. I lost my mother to cancer in 2011, and in 2022, I experienced the devastating loss of my son due to a PIT maneuver by the Georgia State Patrol. This tragedy has inspired me to write a book to raise awareness about the dangers of PIT maneuvers.
This year, I found joy in joining the Soul-Savers choir, a group that has filled my heart with happiness. I also cherish family trips, capturing memories through photography, and worshiping at church. Though my father, a pastor, passed away in 1998, his legacy of faith continues to guide our family. We are a family rooted in prayer and steadfast in our belief in Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Shattered Dreams: A Mother’s Fight for Justice is an emotional memoir by Glenda D. Marsh, detailing her tireless quest for justice following the tragic death of her son, Jeffery “J.J.” Thomas, during a police PIT maneuver. This powerful narrative chronicle J.J.’s life—from his exuberant childhood to his cherished role as a devoted father—culminating in the heart-wrenching loss of a promising life cut short. Through deeply emotional reflections, Marsh gets into the profound grief of losing a child, the arduous journey toward forgiveness, and her solid commitment to seeking justice. The memoir is a testament to the enduring love and strength of family and faith among unimaginable sorrow.
