Following the deaths of the three UVA Football players, many are mourning around the country. A community vigil was held on Friday, November 18th for Devin Chandler and a vigil is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 20th for Lavel Davis Jr. Baller Alert reached out to the high school of one of the victims, D’Sean Perry, with hopes of speaking to his former head coach at Gulliver Preparatory School, Earl Sims.
Security and safety responded on the behalf of the coach, stating, “Due to the sensitive nature of the tragedy that the School is still in mourning over, the Football coach has respectfully declined to respond.”
Despite not receiving a direct quote from the coach, the school’s President Cliff Kling shared a statement accompanied by a quote from the coach.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I write to share the terribly sad news of the tragic loss of D’Sean Perry, Gulliver class of 2019. D’Sean was killed last night in a mass shooting at the University of Virginia, where he was a student and standout member of the Cavaliers football team.
D’Sean joined Gulliver in 2014 in 8th grade and contributed immensely to our community during his time with us. His kind heart, quick wit, and ready smile made him a favorite among his peers, teachers, and coaches. Head Football Coach Earl Sims said, “D’Sean was an amazing soul that made his family and community proud. His high moral character and integrity spoke volumes about the young man he was becoming. His presence was rich and made every encounter worthwhile.”
D’Sean was an intelligent, committed, and hard-working student. He was also a passionate and talented artist. One of my favorite memories of D’Sean was at the 2018 spring art show. He was so proud to show me his ceramics projects on display and to explain them in-depth. D’Sean made an immediate and deep impression on me. His kindness and genuine warmth stood out as did his passion for his art with ceramics.
The loss of D’Sean is felt very deeply in our community. He was a frequent presence on campus after graduation giving back through mentoring our students in the classroom and on the football field. The Gulliver family mourns, and our thoughts and prayers are with D’Sean’s parents, his sister, D’Shandra, Gulliver class of 2021, and his entire family.
Sincerely,
Cliff Kling P ’23 ’26”
Devin Chandler’s family also held a vigil in Charlotte, North Carolina. His mom released a statement saying her family “is heartbroken by our beloved Devin’s tragic and violent death.”
She described her son as an “extraordinary young man.” “He loved to sing, dance, and, of course, play football,” said his mom Dalayna Chandler.
Lavel Davis’ family and community will come together on Sunday along S. Railroad Avenue at 6 am. The University of Virginia will also hold a memorial service over the weekend in his remembrance.
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