Prospect Heights Middle School students are mourning the loss of one of their own.
On Sunday, March 9, principal Renee Bourke penned a letter to parents and guardians of students notifying them that James Keating, a sixth-grader, had passed away Friday, March 7. She said Keating, 12, was a straight-A student athlete known for his quick wit, kindness and generosity. She said students would be informed of their classmate’s passing Monday morning. The Crisis Intervention Team was on-hand this week to assist students with any need. Bourke encouraged parents to speak to their children before school Monday and discuss any questions or concerns they may have.
“We encourage your child to share any happy or funny memories about James rather than focus on his tragic passing,” she wrote. “We are deeply saddened by the loss to our school community.”
Extracurricular and afterschool activities at Prospect were cancelled Monday. The school board rescheduled its meeting from Monday to next Tuesday, March 18, to allow staff to offer needed resources to students and families.
In his obituary, Keating is described as always ahead of the curve, an old soul who at the age of 4 decided to no longer use a nickname, but rather to go by his proper name, James. He enrolled in Tae Kwon Do, earning a black belt at 10. He also raced dirtbikes and enjoyed being outside. He was an athlete, participating in soccer, Hornet wrestling and the PHMS wrestling and track teams. He liked to build things and loved to make people laugh. He enjoyed trading card games and had been creating his own since the age of 6. He also enjoyed graphic novels and watching television shows with his mom and dad.
“More than anything, James was a loving, generous, kind and supportive friend, child and family member. He was smart and funny. He encouraged and cheered on his friends; he rarely argued with his parents, and he adored his pets, especially his beloved dog Maverick. To say he will be missed by his loved ones is a gross understatement. The whole world is missing out.”
A memorial service is planned for Sunday, March 16 at 3 p.m. at the Orange County High School Hornets Sports Center at 200 Hornet Drive, Orange.
