McGill-Toolen Catholic High School Mourns Tragic Loss of Beloved Senior Will Glass
The McGill‑Toolen Catholic High School community is grieving the tragic passing of rising senior Will (William) Glass, aged 17, who lost his life in a drowning accident at Smith Lake near Birmingham, Alabama late Sunday night .
A Beloved Young Life
According to the school’s announcement, Will was celebrated as a bright, kind-hearted young man whose laughter, warmth, and friendship touched everyone he encountered . He was an active student and a proud member of the Yellow Jackets baseball team, known among peers as someone who brought joy to everyday school life .
The Incident
Will’s body was recovered from Smith Lake in Winston County, in the Arley area of northern Alabama, where the coroner confirmed he had drowned during what authorities described as a water accident .
School Response & Community Support
Principal Blake Stein issued a heartfelt message expressing that the school community is deeply saddened by the loss of such a dear student and teammate. He extended prayers to Will’s family, friends, classmates, and faculty, and asked for privacy as the family navigates this difficult time.
To support students and staff, grief counselors and campus ministers were made available:
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July 28 until 3 pm
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July 29 from 9 am to 2 pm
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At the rosary and prayer service held on Wednesday evening, July 30 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church .
Honoring Will’s Memory
The school community described Will as someone whose positive spirit and legacy will continue to resonate:
“Will was a bright, kind-hearted young man who brought joy … to everyone,” and his impact was one “that will not be forgotten”.
Suggested Support
If you’re part of the McGill‑Toolen or broader community and feel affected by this loss, actions like the following may offer solace:
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Reach out to peers or staff at McGill‑Toolen.
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Engage in group prayer or memory sharing initiatives.
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Consider contributing to campus memorials or community service efforts in Will’s name.
🕊️ In Closing
The passing of Will Glass, a cherished rising senior at McGill‑Toolen, has deeply affected the school and greater Mobile community. As grief settles in, the school has offered structured layers of spiritual and emotional support, while asking for privacy for Will’s family. In such times, the unity of community—in