REXBURG, Idaho — It's been more than three years since seven-year-old JJ Vallow's life was tragically taken from him by his mother. After three years and many months of waiting, however, he's finally coming home.
Fremont County Judge Steven Boyce ordered Monday that the body of JJ Vallow be released to his next of kin. In this case, JJ's next of kin are his grandparents, Kay and Larry Woodcock. The order comes more than three years after JJ's death, and means his family can finally have a proper funeral and burial for him.
JJ's grandmother took to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday to express her elation regarding the news, stating in one post, "Praise Jesus! We are grateful."
JJ and his 17-year-old sister Tylee Ryan were murdered by their mother, Lori Vallow Daybell, sometime between late 2019 and early 2020. Their bodies were found in shallow graves on the property of Lori Vallow Daybell's husband, Chad Daybell, on June 9, 2020.
Chad Daybell is also facing charges for the children's murders, as well as the murder of his former wife, Tammy Daybell.
Lori Vallow Daybell was found guilty of her children's murders on May 12, 2023, and sentenced to life in prison. Chad Daybell's trial for his alleged role in the murders is set to begin on April 1, 2024, in Ada County.
Larry and Kay Woodcock also sent us this statement:
The last several years have been filled with pain and grief as we traveled this long arduous road. We have waited and prayed for this day for so long and are immeasurably relieved that JJ will finally be laid to rest.
We have spent the past days immersed in the memories of the love and happiness that JJ shined and continues to shine on our life. As we reminisce in the joy that JJ filled our life with, our hearts ache for those that love JJ and share in the immense grief and loss of such a beautiful little man.
We are grateful for the love and support of everyone that has come to love JJ, Tylee and Charles. As we continue to fight for justice, the dedication and strength given has helped to carry us through.
We are anxious to find out when Tylee too can be laid to rest. Our greatest wish is for JJ and Tylee to be celebrated for the joy and love they brought to this world and for them to finally rest in peace. Only then, will our hearts begin to heal.
Memorial services will be announced at a later date.
Larry and Kay Woodcock
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