The McGill‑Toolen Catholic High School Community Mourns Rising Senior Will Glass

The McGill‑Toolen Catholic High School Community Mourns Rising Senior Will Glass

MOBILE, Ala., July 28, 2025 — In the wake of a devastating accident this weekend, the McGill‑Toolen Catholic High School community is united in grief over the loss of rising senior Will Glass, a 17‑year‑old student whose life was tragically cut short after drowning at Smith Lake.

💔 The Loss of a Bright Young Life

Will — known affectionately to friends and classmates as a warm, joyful presence — was pulled from the waters of Smith Lake in Winston County late Sunday night, according to the Winston County Coroner’s Office . McGill‑Toolen’s principal, Blake Stein, issued a heartfelt statement:

“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our beloved students, Will Glass, a rising senior at McGill‑Toolen Catholic High School. Will was a bright, kind‑hearted young man who brought joy, laughter, and a deep sense of friendship to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

🕯️ Honoring Will: Services & Support

A rosary and prayer service is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mobile, providing the community an opportunity to gather in faith and remembrance

In addition, grief counselors and campus ministers are offering support through designated on‑campus hours:

• July 28 until 3 p.m.

• July 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• At the Wednesday evening service

These resources aim to help students and staff process their grief in a compassionate and prayerful environment.

🧑‍🎓 Will’s Legacy at McT

Though young, Will’s impact at McGill‑Toolen was profound. Described as “bright” and “kind‑hearted,” he embodied the school’s mission: academic excellence grounded in faith, compassion, and service . His presence in the halls, classrooms, and cafeteria brought laughter and friendship to all who knew him.

Will was part of a student body that thrives on spiritual formation, leadership, and community—values central to McT’s identity since its founding in 1896 as an institution committed to forming faithful, engaged citizens e.

🌊 The Tragedy Unfolds

According to the Coroner’s Office, Will drowned in the Arley area of Smith Lake in Winston County late Sunday night, in circumstances still under investigation by local authorities  The school and local community await further details as they rally around Will’s family for privacy and prayer.

🏫 A Community’s Response

The McT community has responded with an outpouring of love and faith. Principal Blake Stein affirmed that Will’s memory will remain a cherished part of the school, and the loss has drawn many to lean on faith during this difficult time

From classrooms to chapel, students and faculty are supporting one another through grief, embodying McT’s commitment to a compassionate community.

❤️ Moving Forward in Prayer and Unity

The school’s message reflects a deep-rooted belief in the power of faith to sustain and heal:

“In times like these, we turn to our faith for strength and unity. We are holding Will’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers in our prayers as we grieve this tragic loss together… Let us continue to pray together: Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”

🕊️ Remembering Will: A Summary Table

🕯️ A Final Reflection

As the McGill‑Toolen community mourns, they also celebrate Will’s life—a life full of promise, light, and heartfelt connection. His passing is a profound loss, but his memory stands as a beacon of kindness woven into the fabric of his school.

May Will rest in peace, and may all who knew him find comfort in prayer, unity, and the shared kindness he inspired in others.