Spencer Perkins will be remembered as a a kind-hearted young man, who touched many lives.
And those who knew him say he will never be forgotten.
Five days after accidentally shooting himself while dove hunting in Noxubee County, the 17-year-old died in Jackson late Friday.
The Heritage Academy junior was pronounced dead of a shotgun blast to the face at the University of Mississippi Medical Center at about 8 p.m., said family spokesman and cousin Perry Perkins.
The soccer forward had been at the hospital since he was airlifted in critical condition Sunday after he dropped his shotgun while on family-owned property near Brooksville, causing the gun to fire.
Funeral arrangements have not been set, according to the family spokesman.
In a statement released following Perkins death, the family thanked “the thousands that prayed for Spencer and our family.”
“We know that in his 17 years of life Spencer has touched hundreds of people with his quick smile, his sense of humor, and his love of life,” the statement says. “In the last week Spencer again demonstrated his love of life through his fight to live.”
The Facebook prayer page started the night of the accident had more than 3,360 fans Saturday.
Heritage Academy Headmaster Tommy Gunn said Spencer was well-liked by teachers and students, in Columbus and elsewhere.
“There”s no doubt he”s going to be missed by everyone,” Gunn said.
That is especially true for the family, who are struggling with the loss now, he added.
“They really need time by themselves,” he said.
Rivers Kountiss of Meridian, who met Perkins at The Grove during an Ole Miss football game, said he “had a huge heart like no other.”
“He”ll always be a part of my heart,” she said. “He”s gone but never forgotten.”
Heritage Academy has postponed homecoming, Grandparents Day and Special Friends Day until Oct. 15 to show solidarity with the family, Gunn said.
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