JACKSON, Mississippi – The observe and area neighborhood is in deep mourning after the surprising passing of Natalie Black, a 19-year-old sophomore at Belhaven College. On March 1, after setting a private report within the triple bounce on the college’s first outside meet of the season in Clinton, Natalie died in her sleep, leaving household, mates, and teammates in shock.
Earlier that day, Natalie achieved a private better of 11.01 meters within the triple bounce, incomes her a second-place end within the occasion. Graduate assistant coach Tytavia Hardy recalled the athlete’s exuberance:
“She about knocked me over celebrating.”
Head coach Butch Ard added, “She walked over like, ‘I do know you noticed that coach, I do know you noticed that.’ I mentioned, ‘I noticed it.’” Her efficiency was a shiny second of triumph, reflecting her willpower and keenness for the game.
After the meet, Natalie returned residence to her household in Terry, Mississippi, the place a celebration of her victory quickly turned tragic. Whereas having fun with time together with her family members, she settled down for a nap on the household sofa—and by no means awoke.
Her mom, Formeka Black, remembered that day with each pleasure and sorrow:
“She was so pleased! That smile, man! She made the most effective triple bounce report she ever had, beat her private report! And later into the evening, nonetheless celebrating with household, she merely laid on the sofa for a bit of nap and by no means awoke. I THANK GOD. There was no struggling. HE gave us that a lot Grace!”
Natalie’s father, Toiwarn Black, expressed immense pleasure in his daughter’s achievements, recalling her promise:
“She was like, ‘I’m gonna make you proud.’ And he or she did that, she completely achieved that purpose.”
A candlelit vigil held in her honor introduced collectively classmates, mates, and teammates who described Natalie as “candy,” “form,” and a “bubbly individual” who had a manner of lighting up any room she entered. “When she comes within the room, the vitality shifts. She’s simply so constructive and loving,” Formeka added, remembering her daughter’s infectious spirit. Teammate Tierra Kelly famous, “She was so candy with the largest smile. It was very heat. She made you’re feeling such as you have been welcome and comfy at all times round her,” whereas Courtney Adams shared, “Each time you’re round Natalie, you’re going to snigger.” Coach Christi Delaughter summed up the sentiment, stating, “Couldn’t have requested for a greater athlete or a greater individual to return and be part of our crew.”
Natalie Black’s sudden passing is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. Because the Belhaven College neighborhood and the broader observe and area household come to phrases with this devastating loss, in addition they rejoice a younger girl who lived with ardour, pleasure, and an unwavering zest for all times. Her legacy will endure within the reminiscences of those that had the privilege of understanding her, inspiring them to cherish each second.
