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"In masses, they came to celebrate the life of a son, brother, grandson, friend, athlete, and a great young man. He maybe gone but never forgotten. #32 DYLAN STRONG." Photo courtesy of Greg Parrott.
Kudos to the Pike County Sheriff's Office for separating the out of town media from those who were coming to pay their respects as well. There is a time and a place for those who report the news because I do that too, but today wasn't the time and place. I am thankful to live in Pike County and to see the outpouring of love and support for Dylan's family. - Editor Becky Watts #dylanstrong
Photo from the City of Concord courtesy of Anita Neath.
Photo from the Upson-Lee/Mary Persons Football Game tonight courtesy of Downey Alicia Poteat. Psalm 147:3 says, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
#32 Pike Strong. One of many displays along the roadways to show support for Dylan's family. Red and black ribbons are all over the county.
ZEBULON - The Pike County Coroner Released the report on the death of Dylan Michael Thomas. Pike County Times released the report in its entirety.
[Note from the Editor: I am uploading this press release in its entirety because I have heard all kinds of rumors, and hopefully this will put a rest to those rumors. The family needs closure and our prayers--not just today but in the days to come too.]
Click here to read this article.
More pictures are below the article.
By Editor Becky Watts
ZEBULON - The Pike County Community gathered at the High School Football Field to pray for Dylan Thomas last night. Estimates are that as many as 1,000 people were there on the field praying and supporting Dylan, his family, and the Pike County High School Football Team and its coaches.
Prayers were prayed for healing because the doctors had done all that they could do after Dylan was injured in the Pike versus Peach County football game on Friday night in Zebulon. There was a huge outpouring of support for this family as friends prayed in circles and gathered in to pray around the football team and their coaches in one large group.
Dylan passed away within a few hours of the vigil last night. Notes of sympathy and remembrance are circling through on social media today.
Many are asking for prayers for the family, team and coaches, and for the entire community. Dylan was only 16, but he touched a lot of lives around him in this short time.
My thoughts today are of sadness today and prayers for peace for all who knew Dylan. I am praying for peace for everyone involved and smiling as I see the people in our community continuing to come together to take care of one of our own.
May Dylan's memory live on in each one of you who knew him. Speak his name so he is remembered and live your life in a way that he would be proud of the person you are or the person you are becoming.
A fundraiser is ongoing for Dylan's family. You can contribute at https://www.facebook.com/donate/298448287417252/.
Update 10.1.18: A Note from the Pike County High School Principal and Pike Superintendent
October 1, 2018
Dear Pike County Family:
I am saddened to inform you that Dylan Thomas, a Pike County High School Student, passed away last evening as a result of injuries sustained in the football game on Friday night. Dylan was an active participant in our school community and a member of the Class of 2020. Please remember his family in the days ahead.
Our school counselors have been and will continue to be available to provide assistance and support to students as they express their sorrow in the loss of their classmate and friend. Students' reactions to this type of event vary as they deal with a wide variety of feelings. It is important that you encourage your child to talk with you about feelings and concerns.
In addition, we offer you the following information to help you as you support your child:
Some children may have physical symptoms. They may complain of stomachaches, headaches, or problems with eating.
Some children may have changes in their sleep patterns. They may sleep more or less than usual.
Some children may lose interest in peer relationships. They may express worry or concern if separated from family members, as well as indicate a need for extra attention from parents.
Some students may display antisocial behavior. They may become more aggressive and/or hostile.
Your presence, concern, and support will be essential in helping your child deal with his or her grief. If we can provide further assistance, please contact us at 770-567-8770.
Sincerely,
Michael Duncan, EdD
Superintendent of Schools
Kevin Huffstetler
Pike County High School Principal
