Livingstone College Volleyball Player Kendall Cook Passes Away at 19

The HBCU athletics community is mourning the loss of Livingstone College student-athlete Kendall Cook, who passed away at the age of 19.

Cook, a member of the Livingstone College women’s volleyball program, was remembered by teammates, coaches, classmates, and supporters across multiple communities that were touched by her life and athletic journey. The freshman student-athlete began her collegiate career at Clark Atlanta University before transferring to Livingstone College, where she competed as an outside hitter and middle blocker.

A 2025 graduate of Frankfort High School, Cook earned recognition for her accomplishments both on and off the court. School officials in Frankfort confirmed her passing this week, though no cause of death has been publicly released.

“Kendall was a beautiful, talented soul,” Frankfort Independent Schools Superintendent Sheri Satterly said in a statement. “She was a joy to know and be around,” whether in the classroom or during athletic competition.

The news has generated an outpouring of support throughout the HBCU sports landscape, where student-athletes often form lasting bonds that extend far beyond competition. Friends, classmates, and fellow athletes have shared tributes celebrating Cook’s kindness, competitive spirit, and positive impact on those around her.

Frankfort Independent Schools announced that grief counseling and mental health resources would be made available to students and members of Cook’s graduating class as the community processes the loss.

In addition to volleyball, Cook was also active in softball during her athletic career, demonstrating the versatility and dedication that defined her time as a student-athlete. Those who knew her described a young woman whose energy and character left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

For Livingstone College and the broader HBCU community, Cook’s passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder that the individuals representing institutions on the field, court, and track are far more than athletes. They are daughters, friends, classmates, teammates, and future leaders whose lives impact countless others.

HBCU Original extends its deepest condolences to Kendall Cook’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, the Livingstone College and Clark Atlanta University communities, and all those grieving this tremendous loss.