Roy Lee Hughes Jr., a 17-year-old track star at Lincoln High School in Dallas, was a poised state champion hurdler with a bright future ahead.
His sudden passing just days before his senior year sent shockwaves through his tight-knit community, particularly leaving his mother, Virginia Mosley, grappling with unbearable grief.
A Mother’s Heartbreak and A Father’s Presence
Virginia Mosley shared through tears how her son came home from track practice, said he was tired, went to take a nap, and never woke up. “I went in there to check on him, and he was just gone,” she said. “I never thought I would be burying my child.”
All hs coaches work toward & dream of having a state champion on their team, in all sports. Thank you Roy Hughes jr., for help making the current Legendary Lincoln T&F Staff dream come true. Gone too soon, but will never be forgotten. Tiger 💜! 🐅🦾🥇@LegendaryLHS pic.twitter.com/8yg1AWCd2q
— Lincoln Athletics (@LHS5PS) August 9, 2025
Roy’s father has kept a lower profile during this difficult time, with his name not being shared publicly.
Friends close to the family say both parents have been surrounded by support from relatives, neighbors, and the Lincoln High School community.
Roy’s Athletic Achievements
This year, Roy won the UIL 4A boys’ 300-meter hurdles state championship with a time of 36.58 seconds and earned a spot on the all-area track team.
Coaches described him as “a respectful young man with a heart of gold” and “one of the hardest workers we have ever coached.”
His teammates remember him not only for his speed on the track but also for his kindness and leadership.
One fellow athlete said, “Roy pushed us to be better every day, and he never let us forget to have fun while we worked.”
School officials spoke about his leadership, saying he was the kind of student who could light up the room just by walking in. “Roy had an energy about him that was contagious,” one teacher said. “He could make the hardest day better with just a smile.”
Many wore shirts with his name and number, while others shared stories of how he had inspired them to chase their dreams.
In Case You Don’t Know
- Roy Lee Hughes Jr. was born in 2008 and passed away in August 2025 at age 17.
- His cause of death is still pending an autopsy report.
- A balloon release was held at Lincoln High School to honor his life and legacy, drawing hundreds of friends, family members, and classmates.
