Tayvian McKibbins was a beloved member of our colonel family who will always be remembered for his ability to be a team player and put a smile on people’s faces. He was a resilient and loving member of our school’s football team, and one thing everyone had to mention about Tayvian was his kind and fun-loving personality. He was a beacon of light who proudly showed his light throughout the school. #51 had a significant impact on every person he played with. Though he is no longer with us, he will always have a place in the hearts of the Cass High football team and Cass High as a whole. 

On March 6th, 2025, Tayvian passed away at the Emory University Hospital after his fight with stomach cancer. This was Sudden and struck everyone; no one expected what was to happen that day when the football players were called into the theater. This news was a tragedy, and it hit everyone at Cass, even those who just knew him as a smiling face in the hall. Tayvian was a bright person with a bright future; he had just signed with Georgia Southern and started attending there in January. Tay passed just two days after his first practice as an Eagle. However, While Tay’s time on Earth was cut short, he lived the life he lived to the fullest, valuing his friends and family. Tay did not let his ailments define him, always pressing on through struggles with a smile. 

According to Steven Gates, Tay’s football coach, he believes that, “Tay’s legacy didn’t just revolve around what he did on the field but also what he did off the field. Tayvian was the perfect All-American boy, always in a good mood, a great leader who put his all into everything he did. Throughout high school, Tay maintained good grades; he was an exceptional athlete with no discipline issues.” One of Gates’ hopes for the students of Cass is that they remember Tay for who he was both during and after the game. Additionally, one of Tay’s close friends, Bear McWhorter, mentioned how Tay’s mood and personality were just contagious. “Whatever mood he was in, you were just going to be in. If he was smiling, you were smiling. If something was wrong with him, something would be wrong with you.” Bear and Gates agreed that just by being who he was, Tay left his mark on Cass High School and his team. Tay’s memory should impact the people of Cass High; his dedication and unwavering positivity in his day-to-day life should be inspiring. No one could ever replace #51, so Cass will be retiring his number in remembrance of him.

One of the things that will be missed about Tay is his ability to put a smile on everyone’s face. Many have shared specific stories of him showcasing his fun, lighthearted, and bubbly personality. Bear shared stories about goofing around while playing varsity football and how special that time was to him. He also mentioned how they struggled and worked together on the field and how much he valued Tay’s friendship. Mrs. Fowler mentioned how she and Tay would always pick on each other. Whenever she left her planning, he would see her from across the hall and get on to her for trying to sneak out early, and it was just something, though it seemed small, Mrs. Fowler cherished it. She also just stressed that, “He was very positive, always smiling like I can’t ever think of him having a bad day. No matter what, he was always happy. He was always smiling. He was always joyous. That was one of my favorite things about him. Even when he was getting on my nerves.” Through simple smiles and his positive spirit, Tays energy radiated throughout all of Cass.

Tay was truly a staple of the Colonel nation, and with heavy hearts, we say goodbye. Even though his life was cut short, Tay lived an amazing life and stayed strong despite the circumstances and struggles. He will always hold a place in the hearts of the Cass Colonels. Rest in Peace, #51, Tayvian Mckibbins.