ATHENS, WV — The Concord University and Charleston-area communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Darnell Brooks, a beloved student-athlete who passed away unexpectedly. A former standout on the George Washington High School varsity football team from 2012 to 2017, Darnell continued his passion for the game as a dedicated player at Concord University, where he was admired for his strength, leadership, and heart.
News of his passing has sent waves of grief through the university, where he was more than just a player—he was a teammate, a friend, and a source of steady encouragement for all who knew him.
“Darnell was the kind of player who lifted up the whole team—not just with talent, but with his attitude and his presence,” said a Concord coach. “He worked hard, loved deeply, and gave everything he had, on and off the field.”
A proud graduate of George Washington High School, Darnell had deep ties to the Charleston community, where he built a reputation as a tough competitor and loyal friend. His years with the Patriots football program left a lasting impression—he was known for his grit, determination, and the quiet kindness he showed his teammates and coaches.
At Concord University, Darnell brought those same values with him, balancing academics with athletics and forming close bonds with classmates and teammates alike. Whether in the locker room, in class, or walking through campus, he was someone people naturally gravitated toward.
“He made you feel like you mattered,” said a fellow student. “That’s what made Darnell special.”
As the university prepares to honor his life, tributes continue to pour in across social media. Former teammates, coaches, and friends are sharing stories, photos, and messages of heartbreak, all echoing the same sentiment: Darnell Brooks was deeply loved—and will be deeply missed.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details have not yet been released. Concord University is offering counseling services for students and staff affected by the loss.
Darnell is survived by his family, who have asked for privacy as they process this unimaginable grief, and thanked the community for its outpouring of support.
In every yard gained, every game fought, and every life he touched, Darnell left his mark. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who stood beside him—on the field and beyond
