Interview with victim's family

Sherwood Wade's uncle and sister plan to be at the trial until it ends.

His sister, Regina Wade, said her brother served in the Army for two years, played football at Shelby High School and earned a scholarship to play at Mars Hill College.

Wade was 38-years-old when he was killed.

She said he once helped his neighbor who was slashed in the throat by a relative.

"My brother saved his life," said Ms. Wade. "If he didn't find him, he would have died."

Wade's uncle Claude London said his nephew and the suspect, Terry Lee Bess, were longtime friends. He said he wouldn't have ever thought Bess could commit the murder but wants to see the justice system work.

"He's such a good person too," said London. "That's what disturbs me the most. I would like to see justice served so people know you can't go out and kill someone."

Ms. Wade said she doesn't believe the self defense claim.

"He could have stabbed him in his leg or somewhere else. Anytime you stab someone in the upper body you're meaning to kill them."