Senior Glenbrook North Student, Football Player Dies
Both Glenbrook North and South will have counselors and social workers available to students who would like to talk about the loss. According to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office, Billy Garrity's cause of death was suicide.
Updated June 15, 1:45 p.m.
According to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office, Billy Garrity's cause of death was suicide.
Updated June 15, 12:30 p.m.
Patch talked with Glenbrook North Principal Paul Pryma who described Garrity as "an exceptional Spartan." Read the full story here.
Updated at June 14, 8 p.m.
Students and parents have come together at St Norbert, 1809 Walters Ave., for a community gathering.
Original story
The following letter was e-mailed to members of the District 225 community Thursday evening:
Dear GBN Parent,
We regret to inform you that a tragedy occurred in the GBN family. Earlier today we learned that GBN student William “Billy" Garrity passed away. Billy was an outstanding student, a member of the football team, and close to many at Glenbrook North. Billy would have been a senior at GBN this fall.
The loss of a young person is tragic and we are concerned for the potential impact on other young people in our community. Please share this information with your student in a manner that you feel is appropriate.
Tomorrow, GBN will be open and counselors and social workers will be available for students who need assistance. Summer school will continue as scheduled at GBS where counselors and social workers will also be available.
Please keep the Garrity family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Paul Pryma
Principal
Stay tuned to Patch for more details as they're available.
Anna Tarkov
7:34 am on Friday, June 15, 2012
He passed away how? Was he ill?
NBK reader
8:06 am on Friday, June 15, 2012
He was a really sweet talented boy with a loving family and a million friends. I am deeply saddened by the news of Billy's death. I know he is in a better place now and all the anguish he felt has been lifted. I pray for his family to find peace...... somehow.... Please keep us informed of any way in which we can help support his family.
Tyree
1:30 pm on Friday, June 15, 2012
I'm am really sad of his death for his family
Anne
2:37 pm on Friday, June 15, 2012
So tragic. Prayers to his family and friends.
Adriana Benitez
6:03 pm on Friday, June 15, 2012
RiP Billy Garrity... My condolences to his parents, family and friends. To the parents, I feel and I understand your loss. I too lost my son Michael last year to suicide, he was 17. My prayers to you and God be with you. Adriana
Anne Marie L. Casserly
11:02 pm on Friday, June 15, 2012
I send prayers to the Garrity family. My deepest condolences!
Becky Monat
10:20 pm on Sunday, July 1, 2012
As a member of the GBN family I had the pleasure of knowing Billy well. He always had his sweet smile and hello to share. He will be missed by everyone he met..May God give you comfort in this your time of sorrow..
Completey Maid
2:14 pm on Thursday, August 2, 2012
I was also a part of the GBN family and it is terrible that we have such a tragedy. Our support and prayers go to the family and friends.
I encourage anyone who is thinking of taking their own life to get support from your friends, family or local counselors. Please support the fundraising for Billy's scholarship fund - it really will make a difference.