Gulf District Schools releases statement on the tragic loss of Port St. Joe football player

GULF COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Jim Norton, Port St. Joe High School Superintendent released a heartfelt statement about the tragic loss of Chance Gainer, a senior at Port St. Joe High School on Friday night.

The tragic loss of Chance Gainer, a senior at Port St. Joe High School, has left our community in profound sorrow. He was a remarkable athlete, a beloved teammate, and an overall exceptional young man who loved Jesus.  Chance was quiet but exuded captivating warmth and genuineness that drew people to him. Principal Sissy Godwin says of Chance, “You may not have heard Chance in the crowd, but you could see his smile from across the room.”  School staff and friends, and community clergy gathered at Port St Joe High School following the tragedy just to be together and to love on the family who joined them as soon as they returned to town.  Superintendent Jim Norton expressed that it was perhaps the most heartbreaking situation imaginable for a family and community, yet at the same time, it was an indescribably heartwarming experience to watch the community pour their hearts of love on the family and Chance’s teammates and coaches.  Please keep Chance’s parents – J. J. and Gal Gainer, his siblings and extended family, friends, teammates, and coaches in your prayers.  We want the Gainer family to feel that they are not alone in this heartbreaking moment.

God Bless this family and all of you.

Information stated on GoFundMe, by Port St. Joe organizer:

It’s with a heavy heart that I reach out to share the devastating news of Chance Gainer’s passing. Chance, a remarkable Senior at Port St. Joe High School, collapsed on the football field and has left a void that can never be filled. He was not just a star athlete; he was a beacon of joy and positivity for his classmates, and his absence is felt across our entire community.

We’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to rally around the Gainer family in this time of need. This effort goes beyond raising funds; it’s about coming together as one strong, supportive family. Contributions will assist the Gainers with funeral costs and any additional burdens they face during this unimaginable journey. Even a small donation can make a significant difference, so I urge you to consider supporting them in any way you can.

Furthermore, your thoughts and prayers for the Gainer family mean the world right now. Let’s show them that their loss does not go unnoticed and that they are surrounded by love. Thank you for standing by us during this difficult time.

CFO, Jimmy Patronis also released a statement on X:

This community is reeling from a heartbreaking loss. Please consider supporting the Gainer family during this incredibly difficult time. Every bit helps. Share and donate if you can.

A GoFundMe campaign has been created to rally around the Gainer family in this time of need.

If you’re interested in donating, click here.

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