EASTMAN, Ga. — The Dodge County community is mourning the sudden loss of Hadden Kelly, a 17-year-old golf prodigy and beloved student-athlete, who died Monday morning after collapsing while participating in a homecoming prank with friends.
Kelly, a junior at Dodge County High School, was found unresponsive in the yard of a home where he and classmates were tossing toilet paper — a common “TPing” stunt. He was pronounced dead shortly after, according to Dodge County Coroner Joe Smith, who is also the teen’s great-uncle. The cause of death remains undetermined, pending autopsy results.
Smith remembered his nephew as a charismatic and gifted athlete with an unmatched love for golf. “If he didn’t pass, I swear he would’ve gone pro,” Smith told local reporters, describing Kelly as outspoken, hardworking, and always eager to support others.
A standout on the Dodge County High golf team, Kelly had already placed in the top 10 at multiple 2025 tournaments and was preparing to compete in an upcoming state event. Teammates and coaches praised him not only for his talent but for his leadership and encouragement.
“Hadden LOVED golf and the Golf Team surely loves Hadden,” the team wrote in a heartfelt tribute on Facebook. “He was our team leader, always encouraging and forever speaking positive words to all around him. He so hoped that our golf team would keep improving and desperately sought after participating in the State tournament. He was our top performing golfer.”
Even when he finished first, Kelly’s teammates said, he stayed behind to cheer on others, a reflection of his selflessness and dedication.
Dodge County High School officials also issued a statement expressing their sorrow: “There are no words to express the sadness that our DCHS family feels for the loss of junior Hadden Kelly. Please join us in prayer for his family, friends, and our DCHS family. Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.”
Kelly’s unexpected passing has left classmates, his golf team, and the wider community in shock, as they remember a young life filled with promise, talent, and generosity.
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