Family and community of Miami Norland High School pay tribute to football coach killed in Opa-locka apartment – WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports

NORTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) – A heartbroken community came together to participate in a touching tribute to a high school football coach who was killed in his Opa-locka home.

With balloons in hand and heavy hearts, attendees gathered Friday evening at Miami Norland Senior High School in northwest Miami-Dade to pay their final respects to the school's beloved football coach, Keon Bernard Smith.

“We will never forget Keon. The pain will never go away, but teach us how to deal with it,” said one speaker as he led those present in prayer.

Fittingly, they remember the late coach on the field where he worked, taught and inspired.

“Keon influenced a lot of people, man. I'm being completely honest with all of you,” the spokesman said.

According to Miami-Dade police, Smith was shot early Monday morning in his apartment in the area between Northwest 132nd Street and 28th Avenue. The crime remains unsolved.

“This has harmed the community,” the spokesman said.

Nylah Clark, Smith's stepdaughter, said her stepfather was a loving force in her life.

“He's my stepfather, but he's been in my life since I was two, so he's my father and no one can tell me otherwise,” she said.

Clark said she will remember Smith as a unique individual who made a difference in people's lives.

“It just reminds me of what a great person my dad was and how many people he influenced,” she said. “Lots of fun, very strict with us, but we always had fun.”

Smith's cousin, Lorenzo Chestnut, also spoke to 7News about the coach.

“He put family above all else, family first and children second,” he said. “He was a very spiritual person, because that's how we were raised.”

Current and former members of Smith's football family also reflected on what he meant to them.

“He made everyone smile. It was always a good time with him,” said player Jerrard Smith.

“I am deeply hurt and still trying to process what happened,” said Walter Walker, who coached alongside Smith.

Others present at the memorial service were neither co-workers nor players, but said it helped them to have known him.

“He taught me a lot. He helped me see things I went through,” said Evena Jean-Jacques, a friend of the victim.

Whether recently at Norland or another school, Smith's impact went beyond football.

“He really touched me. He helped me with my difficulties, both in football and in school,” said Kadin Jean-Jacques, who was coached by Smith.

“It's good to know he was still doing what he loved. We will miss him very much,” said coach Daryl Bethune.

If you have any information about this shooting or the whereabouts of the person, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.