Last December, the Baylor family mourned the loss of Chase Cantrell, a senior journalism and public relations major and entrepreneurship minor from Franklin, Tennessee. Over Thanksgiving break, Chase suffered a seizure and fell into a coma. In the days following, his Baylor friends rallied around him, even organizing a prayer vigil where dozens of students and faculty came together to pray for his healing.

On December 6, Chase passed away at the age of 21. In the midst of their grief, the Cantrell family was moved by the support of the Baylor family hundreds of miles away. Chase’s father, Mark, requested we share the following letter on behalf of his family.

My son, Heflin Chase Cantrell, was a senior at Baylor until his passing on December 6th, 2016. While visiting relatives in Mississippi for Thanksgiving, he had an epileptic seizure and stayed in a coma until his untimely passing to be with our Creator.

During his hospital stay, Baylor friends, faculty, Sigma Chi brothers, and many more were so very supportive and loving. I came to understand why Chase loved Baylor so much, as it is more than just a university – it is a family that comes together to love the Lord and celebrate life.

The prayer vigil and memorial service that were held on campus were live streamed and meant so much to us as Chase has family spread out all over the southeast. I never understood how much prayer meant to those in need until we were in this unfortunate situation.

Once again, thank you for being such a wonderful place for my son to have studied, worshipped, and enjoyed life. God bless. I took this picture of his boots after the Kansas State game while we were playing football. I had no idea they would soon be empty for good, or until we meet again in heaven.    

Thank you,

Mark Cantrell

Thank you, Mark, for sharing with the Baylor family. As a university, our prayers remain with the Cantrell family.