Teenager remembered for his 'love of Jesus' after tragic death on football field

Caden Tellier, a 16-year-old student at Morgan Academy in Selma, Alabama, died tragically after suffering a severe brain injury during a football game on Friday night (August 23).

It was during the third quarter of the Morgan Academy Senators' second game of the season that Tellier, who plays quarterback, was injured after a routine tackle. Tellier was immediately flown by helicopter to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injury.

On Facebook, Caden's mother Arsella wrote: “Our boy Caden Tellier has met Jesus face to face. We are grateful for all your prayers and ask for them for the difficult days ahead. Everyone who knows Caden has experienced kindness, generosity and love, and true to his nature, he gives of himself once again.”

“His way of life touched many people and his death will save lives,” she added. “We will walk by his side in his earthly body for the next few days, knowing that his spirit is rejoicing in heaven. Arrangements for a service will be made soon.”

RELATED: Worship, salvation and baptism! Ohio State University football players host faith event on campus

Principal Dr. Bryan Oliver said in a Facebook post on the school's official page that he knew Caden was with his “Lord and Savior” because he “loved the Lord with all his heart” and showed that love every day at school.

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that Caden Tellier has gone to be with his Lord and Savior,” Oliver said. “Caden loved the Lord with all his heart and was a shining light every day he walked into the halls of Morgan Academy. He was a student, a friend, an athlete and most of all, a follower of Christ.”

Oliver continued: “There are no words to describe how we feel as a school community and family. We will come together and support Jamie, Arsella and Lyla with all our hearts.”

“We express our deepest condolences to the Telliers. [sic] also my extended family,” said Oliver. “I would like to thank all the schools and individuals who helped during this difficult time.”

“Caden will never be forgotten, no matter who he was and what he meant to Morgan Academy,” he concluded.

On Monday, the school held a prayer service to honor Tellier. During the prayer service, Oliver told students and parents that Tellier's death gave them the opportunity to “spread [Caden’s] Light and love for Jesus throughout your city and your entire community.

“And let it have an everlasting impact, because that's what Caden wanted,” Oliver said. “Caden was defined by his love for the Lord and his ability to spread that love like wildfire.”

RELATED: “God, you are good” – Steven Curtis Chapman remembers 15 years after the tragic death of his daughter Maria

Tellier's father, Jamie, an assistant coach for the school's football team, said, “My son was an exceptional athlete. He loved playing football and baseball, and he loved to role model the sport he played.”