Raymond, MS – Emanuell Cooks Passes Away After Game, Leaving MDCC Football Family Grieving Deeply
RAYMOND, MS — Emanuell Cooks, 19, a freshman offensive lineman from Elba, Alabama, passes away following medical complications after Thursday night’s football game against Hinds Community College. The sudden loss has left teammates, coaches, and the entire Mississippi Delta Community College (MDCC) family in deep shock, struggling to process the tragedy of losing a young athlete with so much promise.
Cooks, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 340 pounds, had played every game this season for the MDCC Trojans. Coaches and teammates describe him as a dedicated, hardworking player who quietly contributed to the team’s efforts, demonstrating both physical and emotional strength, even in difficult moments on and off the field.
The game against Hinds Community College, played in Raymond, was the final match before MDCC begins its postseason schedule. While the team was focused on competition, no one anticipated the medical complications that would later claim the life of their teammate. The suddenness of his passing has made it particularly difficult for those close to him.
MDCC President Dr. Steven Jones released a statement expressing profound sorrow over the loss of Cooks. He described the Trojan family as devastated, emphasizing that Cooks’ commitment, effort, and quiet leadership had made a lasting impression on both students and staff. “This is a tragedy that reminds us all of the preciousness of life,” Jones said.
Hinds Community College President Dr. Stephen Vacik also commented on the heartbreaking news, calling it a sobering reminder of life’s fragility. He extended condolences to Cooks’ family and highlighted the shared grief felt by both institutions. Officials at Hinds noted that their community stands in solidarity with MDCC during this time of mourning.
Counseling services have been made available for students, athletes, and staff at MDCC to help them cope with the emotional impact of Cooks’ passing. Mental health professionals are working closely with teams and student groups to provide guidance, support, and space for grieving, recognizing the profound effect such a sudden loss can have on a young community.
Teammates remember Cooks for his quiet determination and selflessness on and off the field. His presence in the locker room, his encouraging words during practice, and his willingness to support others made him more than just a teammate; he was considered a friend and mentor to many younger players on the roster.
Family members describe Cooks as a dedicated student-athlete, committed to his academic responsibilities while pursuing his passion for football. Beyond athletics, he was known for his kind nature, his respect for others, and the humility with which he carried himself—traits that left a lasting impression on those who knew him best.
As the news spreads through MDCC and the wider football community, local organizations and alumni have expressed condolences. Social media tributes and messages of support pour in, honoring Cooks’ memory and encouraging those affected to lean on one another for comfort.
Emanuell Cooks’ passing leaves a profound void in the MDCC community. While the Trojan family grapples with this heartbreaking loss, his legacy of effort, quiet strength, and dedication will continue to inspire future players, reminding everyone that the bonds formed through sport and community can leave lasting impacts, even in the face of tragedy.
