Tragedy strikes BPC Basketball team

Quintereal Kelley

MOUNT VERNON—Tragedy struck the Brewton-Parker College men’s basketball team when senior guard Quintereal Kelley died late Saturday night (Feb. 6) while visiting friends back home in Alabama.

On Sunday evening, grief counselors and BPC administrators were at the college to help the young man’s teammates and coaches deal with his sudden and unexpected loss.

Kelley was a two-year member of the Barons basketball team after transferring from Jefferson Davis Community College.  He was known for his toughness, competitive spirit, and his outstanding ability as a three-point shooter.  Most recently, he led the Barons to a key SSAC victory over Southern Wesleyan with 19 points on 5-8 shooting from the 3-point line.

“He was one of my favorite guys to coach,” said Head Coach John D. Jones.  “He was a fighter who always had his teammate’s backs.  They knew that and loved him for it.  Off the court, he was a well-spoken and respectful young man who had a world of potential to be successful in life.  I am deeply saddened by his loss.”

“We all feel horribly deprived of this fine young man who contributed so much to our BPC family.  I am comforted by knowing that he acknowledged his acceptance of Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at a campus worship event for our Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter over a year ago.  That knowledge helps me remind all of his friends, as well as myself, that our separation is short but our reunion will be eternal” said David R. Smith, president of the College.

Affectionately known around campus as “Q”, his gregarious personality and confident demeanor gained respect and admiration from all who knew him well.  Q was also a consistent 3.0 performer in the classroom and was on track to earn his degree from Brewton-Parker.

A memorial service was held on the BPC campus on Tuesday morning.  Rev. Bucky Kennedy, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Vidalia, was the speaker.  Two members of the basketball team also shared their thoughts and memories of their fallen teammate.  Nate Green spoke of Q’s devotion to his team, and his unique quality of always telling you what he was thinking, without fear. “I respected him for that,” said Greene.  Brandon Barron emphasized Q’s strong commitment as a friend to his friends.  “He was a true brother to me,” said the fellow Alabama native and team captain.

Funeral services will be held in Goodwater, Ala., on Mon., Feb. 15 and will be attended by all members of the men’s basketball team.

BPC Barons Senior Guard Quintereal Kelley (20) faces an Edward Waters College opponent Nov. 7 in the Gillis Gym on the college’s Mount Vernon campus. Kelley died Feb. 6 while visiting friends back home in Alabama. (Photo by Kelly Vickers)

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