JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – Natalie Black was a sophomore track and field standout at Belhaven University.

The Terry native was a lightning bolt on the track and a light to the ones around her.

But her big heart and smile weren’t just for her friends and family. She also found a way to shine her light on some of the coaches who helped her behind the scenes.

On Saturday, March 1, Natalie and her team traveled to Clinton to compete in their first outdoor meet of the season – but no one knew it would be her last.

After the track meet, Natalie went home to spend time with her family, and after a long day, she lay down on the couch to take a nap but never woke up.

On Friday, her close friends, teammates, and family refused to let Natalie’s light dim and held a candlelight vigil on the Belhaven track to keep her light shining bright.