With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloving child, Angel Gabriel "Gabe" Rocha, of Dahlonega, Georgia, who was taken from us too soon, on Friday, November 22, 2024. He was born on April 18, 2000, in Gainesville, Georgia, to Grabriela Rocha and Larry Dean "Casper" Hedden Jr. Gabe will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Gabe is survived by his paternal grandparents and guardians, Larry and Bridget Hedden; his brother/uncle, Kenneth Hedden; his brothers Cristobal Sandoval, Jeremy Hedden, Larry Dean Hedden III, and Thomas Joel Rocha; his sister/aunt, Amanda Hedden-Yorkey (Steven); his sister Natalie Zarate; paternal grandmother Lisa Gregory; maternal grandmother Maria Luisa Zamorano; aunts Angelina Fajardo (Francisco) and Elizabeth "Beth" Head; cousins Joe Salas, Ashley Valladres, Leticia Martinez, Nichole Escobedo, and Sebastian Fajardo; nephews Steven Yorkey Jr. and Caleb Yorkey; and his special nephew and "little buddy," Wyatt Yorkey.

Gabe was a person whose spirit resonated deeply with creativity and passion. His artistic soul was evident in the way he expressed himself through both music and drawing, which brought him joy. Whether he was listening to a song, or sketching his thoughts onto a page, Gabe found a unique way to connect with the world around him. His artistic abilities were not just hobbies; they were an integral part of his identity, fueling his emotional and intellectual growth.

Beyond his love for the arts, Gabe was a free spirit who thrived on new experiences. He was always looking for the next adventure, eager to explore new horizons, meet new people, and learn from every situation. This sense wasn't just about physical travel; it extended to his personal growth. Gabe dreamed of attending college, hoping to deepen his knowledge and broaden his perspective on life. His ambition was driven by a desire to challenge himself and make a meaningful impact on the world.

One of Gabe's most cherished bonds was with his dogs. His love for them went beyond simple companionship. Gabe found comfort and solace in their presence, often speaking of the joy they brought into his life. His relationship with his dogs reflected his nurturing and kind-hearted nature—he saw them not only as pets but as loyal friends who shared in his moments of happiness and quiet reflection.

Gabe's life was full of promise, creativity, and an unquenchable thirst for life's adventures, and his memory will forever remain tied to the beauty of the music, art, and love he left behind.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 3:00 PM in the chapel of Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home, with his father, Larry Hedden Jr., and Ricky Woody officiating. Interment will follow at the cemetery at Antioch Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11:00 AM until the service hour.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made directly to Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home to help cover funeral expenses.

Gabe will be dearly missed by all who knew him, and his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of his loved ones.

Psalm 34:18 "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."  The words of Psalm 34:18 remind us that even in the depths of our pain and sorrow, The Lord is intimately close to us. He not only understands our brokenness but also has the power to rescue us from the deepest heart pain.

Psalm 23:1-6 "1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever."

To share a memory of Gabe or a condolence with the family, visit andersonunderwood.com.

Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home, 2068 Highway 19 North, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533