Florida A&M Interim President Timothy Beard has never forgotten his hometown of Port St. Joe. He believes the Gulf County coastal community is an important and integral part of his life.
It’s about family, too.
That’s why Beard plans to attend Chance Gainer’s funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. in the high school gymnasium, which is called the R. Marion Craig Coliseum.
Gainer, 18, a star senior receiver and cornerback for the Tiger Sharks, died last Friday after collapsing on the field during a game at Liberty County High in Bristol. Gainer received medical attention on the field and was rushed via ambulance less than six miles to a hospital in Blountstown, where he died.
“It just bring tears to your eyes,” said Beard, a former athlete and honors student at Port St. Joe.
Gainer’s death also hit close to home for Beard. He said his family is friends with the Gainers, and that Gainer’s grandfather and Beard’s brother are “very close.” The connection also extends between aunts and uncles of the families.