12News has learned Rice University defensive lineman and Hardin Jefferson alum Blain Padgett has passed away.
A gathering of Blain's family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 7, 2018, at Wesley United Methodist Church.
His funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 8, 2018, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 3810 North Major Drive, Beaumont. Interment will follow at Rosedale Cemetery, Sour Lake, under the direction of Broussard's, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.
According to a statement released by Rice University, Padgett passed away Friday in his apartment. There was no cause of death released.
Rice head football coach Mike Bloomgren and Director of Athletics offered these statements on the passing of Blain Padgett:
Mike Bloomgren: “Our team is devastated by this news. All of my thoughts right now are how best to help Blain’s family and his teammates in this very difficult period.”
Joe Karlgaard: “Our entire athletic department is in mourning over the loss of Blain Padgett. Blain was a great friend and teammate and the sense of loss is overwhelming to his teammates, his friends, but most importantly to his family, who are in our thoughts and prayers. We will do everything in our power to provide assistance to our student-athletes in this incredibly difficult time.”
