The tragic death of Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez has shaken the entire sports world to its core. That’s especially true in Miami, where Fernandez not only displayed his remarkable talents, but lit up the city with his child-like enthusiasm and infectious smile.

At only 24 years old, Fernandez leaves behind a legacy that touched and inspired so many people. That’s why the Miami community has banded together, led by other sports teams, to honor his memory.

The Miami Dolphins were the first, holding a moment of silence just hours after Fernandez’s tragic boating accident and moments before their home opener last Sunday. Now, the Miiami Hurricanes football has joined, announcing they will be wearing a special helmet sticker that reads “JF 16” for Fernandez during Saturday’s game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

The Miami Hurricanes football team will honor Jose Fernandez with this “JF 16” helmet sticker. (Hurricanes) More

It’s a terrific gesture that further illustrates what Fernandez meant to everyone in the community and beyond. Given all that he overcame to live his dream, he was a source of inspiration for his peers, opponents, fellow athletes and others trying to live their dreams too.

Fernandez was also honored ahead of the Marlins game at Nationals Park on Friday night.





Another subtle tribute atop the Marlins lineup on the scoreboard: pic.twitter.com/KsIPgD8JVu — Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) October 1, 2016





The loss of Jose Fernandez has been felt everywhere, and will continue to be felt for a long time. The healing process is really just beginning, but the memories will live forever.

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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at bigleaguestew@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

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