Dobie High School Band Honors Nathan with a Tribute That Lets His Light Shine
The Blue Bee Project was created in memory of my son, Nathan. He was a bright, kind, and talented young man who played French horn in the J. Frank Dobie Band. We lost him to suicide when he was only 15 years old. Our mission is to honor his life by spreading awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, especially among young people.
This would have been Nathan’s senior year, and the J. Frank Dobie Band wanted to honor him with a special tribute on Senior Night. Senior Night is a cherished tradition that celebrates the graduating senior members of school organizations, recognizing their dedication and hard work. My family was invited to walk onto the field with the senior families, but we declined because we were afraid of the emotions the ceremony might bring. As parents of four sons, we had already experienced this joyful moment before. We know how meaningful it is for families and did not want our grief to lessen their joy in any way.
Still, the band wanted to include Nathan as a gesture of unity and remembrance, and their thoughtfulness was touching. We chose not to walk onto the field, but we were comfortable with Nathan’s name being included among those recognized. We didn’t know how that moment would feel, but we were truly grateful that they wanted to honor our son in such a special way.
Nathan’s name was called, followed by a moment of silence. For that brief, powerful pause, it felt as though the entire stadium was holding Nathan close. He was not there, yet his love united us all. It was a surreal and moving moment. We were just beginning to push back tears when, just like that, the moment ended. Back to reality. A raw reminder that Nathan is still not here. Yet this painful moment was equally as important because it’s part of what makes healing real. When we allow ourselves to face reality, we integrate our loss into life itself. It tells our hearts: this really happened, he really mattered, and though he isn’t here physically, he is still with us in love.
After the ceremony, in a quieter space off the field, each senior handed me a single blue rose, each one full of love. I fought back tears, trying to stand strong and smile for these seniors who should be celebrating their own accomplishments. Yet they selflessly paused to show us compassion. Some smiled brightly while others carried sadness in their eyes. One girl in particular stood out. She tried to speak, but emotions stopped her. In the end, she simply handed me the rose. I received it with love. Sometimes, there are no words and yet, our hearts understand.
To the J. Frank Dobie Band, their directors, and every student who helped honor our son, thank you for holding our son close and walking this journey with us. A special thank you to Ms. Beckie for all you do. You are greatly appreciated and loved. And to Nathan’s friends, thank you for your boldness in lifting up “988,” a symbol of hope for anyone who may be struggling.
The evening was an overwhelming mix of grief and gratitude. It reminded us what the Blue Bee Project stands for: healing through community, compassion, and the courage to care for one another. May you always find the courage to lift others up, and the same courage to reach out when you need help. May Nathan’s story continue to inspire you to share hope wherever you go.
If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out. Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.