Track and field star Natalie Black has died suddenly while taking a nap after a competition.
The 19-year-old was a sophomore at Jackson’s Belhaven University.
She had returned home from Clinton, where her college’s track and field team had their first outdoor meet of the season.
The promising athlete had a successful day at the competition, during which Black beat her triple jump personal record, launching herself at 11.01 meters and winning second place.
Black’s team’s graduate assistant coach, Tytavia Hardy, told WLBT, “She nearly knocked me over celebrating.”
Her father, Toiwarn Black, recalled her words with pride: “She told me, ‘I’m going to make you proud,’ and she absolutely did.”
Head coach Butch Ard also remembered her with a smile: “She came over like, ‘I know you saw that, Coach. I know you saw that.’ And I said, ‘I saw it.’”
Following the heartbreaking news of the 19-year-old athlete’s passing, tributes have poured in across social media, honoring her spirit, talent, and unforgettable presence.
One person wrote, “Natalie Black and family – she was an amazing athlete, her legacy will live on! I am so sorry; soul, love, beautiful.”
Another shared, “Prayers for the family, and I’ll keep praying for her teammates.”
A third expressed, “So sad to see such a bright, young life cut short. Thinking of her family during this heartbreaking time.”
Formeka Black also took to Facebook to reflect on her final day with her daughter: “We had an amazing last day with her on Saturday. From morning till night, we all had such a great time with her… she was so happy!”
She continued, “That smile, man! She set the best triple jump record she ever had, beating her personal best!”
A tribute from the Mississippi Track and Field Youth Club reads, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Natalie Black, a true champion in Track & Field.
“Her talent, determination, and sportsmanship inspired countless individuals, both on and off the field.
“Natalie’s remarkable contributions to the sport will forever be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”
In honor of Black’s life, her family, friends, coaches, and teammates gathered for a candlelit vigil at Belhaven’s outdoor track. During the emotional event, attendees were invited to share their fondest memories of the 19-year-old, reflecting on her impact and spirit.
At the conclusion of the service, everyone took a lap around the field to honor her deep love for the sport.
Her father shared, “To be out here with all these people who loved and cared for my baby is just so incredible. It’s a great experience to witness and feel the love.”
Black’s passing came as a devastating shock to her family and friends.
After celebrating her victory in the season’s first track competition, the young star returned home to be with her loved ones, unaware that this would be her final moment with them.
After a long, rewarding day, the young star decided to take a nap on the couch.
Her mother shared, “Later into the night, still celebrating with family, she simply laid down for a nap on the couch and never woke up.”
Toiwarn Black added, “I thank God. There was no suffering. He gave us that much grace.”
The official cause of Black’s death has not yet been released.
