Red Level High School students were offered counseling services Monday after they learned of the tragic death of a fellow student over the weekend.

Covington County Schools Superintendent Shannon Driver said Monday that RLHS Principal Randy McGlaun and his staff and teachers prepared to help students by having several staff counselors and volunteer counselors on hand.

“They have been seeing students this morning as needed,” he said. “They had some extra people come in. It’s a very sad and tragic thing.”

Sheriff Dennis Meeks confirmed the death was a suicide.

McGlaun called William Coker’s death “a heartbreaking and tragic event.”

He had just turned 15 less than two weeks prior to his death.

“The sudden death of William has touched students, staff and faculty here at Red Level High School,” he said. “William was a kind and respectful student who was always willing to help others in need. I believe we all have a story of William whether he was holding the door for others or stopping by to visit his former teachers. William was well-liked by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.”

McGlaun said school officials have implemented a crisis response plane to help students and staff respond.

“Students had the opportunity to talk about their emotions and feelings with their teachers and classmates,” RLHS counselor Melissa Nall said. “We had additional staff and counselors on campus today to assist us as well. Please keep the Coker family in your prayers. It is crucial for us to extend our support to the grieving family with warmth in our hearts and comfort in our words.”

For complete obituary, click here.

A Go Fund Me account has been set-up to help the family with funeral expenses. Anyone interested in donating may do so at https://www.gofundme.com/expenses-for-coker-family