MISSOURI CITY, Texas — Hundreds gathered to celebrate and remember the life of Terrance Howard, a 19-year-old who was a standout athlete at Ridge Point High School.
Howard died after being hit by a car in North Carolina, where he was transferring to play football.
Family members, friends and Terrance’s coaches gathered at Ridge Point High School’s football field for the vigil.
“My son knew without a shadow of a doubt that I loved him,” said Matishe Allen, Terrance’s mother.
She said she feels pain and peace but is pressing on.
“It’s still feeling like this is not happening…but it’s amazing, it’s a testament to who he is,” Allen said.
She said she could still feel Terrance’s presence.
The 19-year-old had plans to continue his football career. He transferred from the University of Alabama to North Carolina Central, where he received a full scholarship. He played defensive back at Ridge Point and was a star in the 400-meter race.
“Phenomenal, good kid. Smart, always happy, smiling, just a perfect son,” Terrance Howard said.
He remembers his son’s biggest moments and the small ones too.
“It makes me so proud for me to know he became a leader,” Howard said to the crowd on the field.
Terrance was going to check on another driver after an accident when he was hit. Family said they are grateful for the support from NC Central, Alabama and his friends in the Sienna area.
“The love of this community towards Terrance and his family…you can’t express [thanks]. You have to look in amazement and thank God he set this type of presence here on earth,” Anthony Allen, Terrance’s stepfather told KHOU 11 News,
White and purple balloons were released into the air and purple ribbons were tied around trees throughout the Sienna community in his honor.
Terrance had plans to be a coach or broadcaster after completing college. His friends, coaches and family now plan to honor and remember him as time goes on.