Kingwood, TX – The community of Kingwood, Texas, continues to mourn the loss of two remarkable young men, Parker and Alex Coogan, who both passed away in 2021. Parker Coogan, a former Columbia University football player, died on April 27, 2021, at the age of 24 due to an accidental combination of drugs, including heroin and fentanyl. His brother, Alex Coogan, passed away on July 24, 2021, in Galveston, Texas. The cause of Alex’s death was not publicly disclosed.
About Parker Coogan
Parker Coogan was a dedicated and accomplished individual whose life was marked by significant achievements in academics, athletics, and community service. Born and raised in Kingwood, Texas, Parker’s journey began at Columbia University, where he played as an offensive lineman for the football team. He was a two-time All-Ivy League selection in 2018 and 2019, starting 32 games in his career, including 30 at center and right guard. Parker’s athletic prowess was complemented by his academic excellence. He was a CoSIDA Academic All-District honoree in 2017 and 2019, a Fall Academic All-Ivy League member in 2019, and an inductee into the NFF Hampshire Academic Honor Society.
Parker’s contributions to Columbia’s football team were substantial. As a sophomore, he started 10 games as a right guard before switching to center for his junior and senior seasons. His performance helped the Lions’ offensive line achieve the second-lowest opponent sack totals in school history in 2018. Beyond his athletic achievements, Parker was a leader and a role model. He coordinated Columbia’s annual liftathon and fundraiser for the Jacked 4 Jacklyn Foundation and earned his degree in Economics with a Business Management focus in May 2020.
Before his collegiate success, Parker was a standout athlete at Kingwood High School, where he played varsity football for three years. He was twice selected for the First Team All-District and the Academic All-District, and he served as team captain in his senior year. Parker was also a National Merit Scholar and excelled in track and field, setting a personal best in the shot put.
About Alex Coogan
Alex Coogan, Parker’s older brother, was also a distinguished individual with a passion for athletics and community service. Alex’s high school years at Kingwood High School were spent focusing on his love for football, basketball, pole vaulting, and lacrosse. He played junior varsity lacrosse and four years of football, two of which were on the varsity team. In 2010, Alex was selected for the Academic All-District Team. After football games, he enjoyed gathering with friends around the fire pit for “Bro-Circle” at the Coogan family home.
Alex’s commitment to athletics extended to coaching Parker and his friends on their 7-on-7 football team, leading them to the state title. He also supported his younger sister, McKenna, in her dance events, showcasing his dedication to family.
Alex pursued higher education at The University of Alabama, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce and Business Administration from the Culverhouse College of Business. While at Alabama, he served as the marketing coordinator for the Dean of Students Office and was heavily involved in the Greek system. He held various leadership positions, including Interfraternity Council President and Treasurer, and was a member of the Men’s Senior Honor Society of JASON.
Alex’s achievements extended beyond his university years. He was a member of the University of Arizona’s Cardinal Key Honor Society, Phi Sigma Theta Honor Society, and Order of Omega-Beta Alpha Chapter Honor Society, where he received the Most Outstanding Sophomore Award. He also coordinated Alabama’s Pi Kappa Alpha “Be the Match” Bone Marrow Donor Program.
Tributes and Community Response
The deaths of Parker and Alex Coogan have left an indelible mark on their family and the community of Kingwood. The outpouring of tributes highlights the profound impact they had on those around them.
Mitch Farris, a family friend, shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook: “As many of you know by now, my son, Kyle, unexpectedly passed away yesterday afternoon. I’m pretty much in shock and disbelief right now and can’t even wrap my head around it, but I do want to thank you all for the outpouring of love and prayers our family has received. Kyle has been fighting many demons for a long time now, and it’s been a real struggle at times, but he’s still my little boy, and this is a hurt like no other. I truly believe he’s wrapped up in God’s arms now and is at peace and will no longer have to fight those demons. Rest easy, my son. Your mom and I and your family will miss you….until we meet again.”
Janna Goodman, a close friend, also expressed her sorrow: “..he was my person. We spent most every day together, even if we only had 20 minutes of time to spare in a day, those 20 minutes went to each other. The way we were best friends, the way we loved each other, always supported each other no matter how serious or silly the situation, the way we cried and laughed together.. the way he loved my kids and was so kind and patient with them.. it’s irreplaceable. There is no way I could pick one point in time to describe our relationship with a picture. Please pray for his entire family, blood or distant, we all loved Kyle deeply. He was taken from us yesterday, and I can’t describe how bad everyone’s hearts are broken.”
Legacy and Moving Forward
The legacies of Parker and Alex Coogan are marked by their dedication to sports, academics, and community service. Their contributions have left a lasting impact on their family, friends, and the broader Kingwood community.
To honor their memory, the community is organizing various initiatives, including scholarship funds and memorial events. These efforts aim to continue the Coogan brothers’ legacy of excellence and service, providing support and opportunities for future generations.
Mental Health Awareness
Parker’s death due to an accidental overdose and the circumstances surrounding Alex’s passing underscore the importance of mental health awareness and support. Their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges many face in silence. The community is committed to addressing these issues, offering resources and support to those in need.
Local mental health organizations are stepping up efforts to provide counseling and support services. They encourage individuals to seek help and remind everyone that it’s okay to ask for support. The Kingwood Mental Health Center has extended its hours and is offering free counseling services to anyone affected by the Coogan brothers’ deaths.
Conclusion
The loss of Parker and Alex Coogan is a profound tragedy for the Kingwood community. Their lives, marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication, will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew them. As the community comes together to mourn and heal, they are also taking steps to ensure that the Coogan brothers’ legacy of excellence, service, and kindness lives on.
Rest in peace, Parker and Alex. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved you.
