OAK HILL, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Oak Hill community is coming together to support a grieving family following the tragic death of a 15-year-old Oak Hill High School student.
The outpouring of support follows the heartbreaking loss of Kai Christopher Hurley, a 15-year-old sophomore at Oak Hill High School whose life was tragically cut short on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Oak Hill High School students and staff wore purple and black in remembrance of Hurley during the school day on Thursday.
In the days following his death, community members have rallied around his family, donating more than $13,000 through a GoFundMe fundraiser established to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to his mother and younger brothers.
According to his obituary from Tyree Funeral Home, Kai was a sophomore at Oak Hill High School and a member of the school’s wrestling team. He previously played football at Oak Hill Middle School and enjoyed fishing.
Beyond his involvement in sports, Kai is remembered as a loving big brother who consistently put others before himself.
His obituary describes him as quiet and selfless, someone who was always thinking of others.
A GoFundMe fundraiser titled “Help Support Amanda & Her Family After the Heartbreaking Loss of Kai Hurley” has been established to help his mother and family navigate the difficult days ahead.
The fundraiser aims to assist with funeral and memorial expenses, everyday living costs, and caring for Kai’s younger brothers.
“While no amount of money could ever take away their pain or fill the emptiness left behind, we hope to give Amanda the opportunity to focus on her children, grieve, and begin healing without the added weight of financial stress,” the fundraiser states.
The community’s response has already resulted in more than $13,000 in donations, demonstrating an outpouring of support for the family during an unimaginable loss.
Organizers are encouraging those unable to contribute financially to share the fundraiser and keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.
Funeral services for Kai will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, November 9, at Calvary Baptist Church in Oak Hill, with Pastor Jim Truman officiating.
Friends may visit with the family beginning at 1 p.m. Monday until the time of the service.
Kai’s uncle, Brian Hensley, and members of the Oak Hill High School wrestling team will serve as pallbearers.
As the family prepares to say goodbye, the community continues to offer support in hopes of easing some of the burdens they face.
Those wishing to contribute to the family can visit the GoFundMe fundraiser established in Kai’s memory.
Tyree Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
