Community mourns death of Fallston toddler
A Fallston family is in mourning after their July Fourth took a tragic turn when their toddler fell into a pool.
Wyatt Scott Gordon, 2, died Sunday after several days on life support.
The little boy with the bright blond hair and charming smile was the son of Anne Marie and Zach Gordon, and older brother to Magnolia Gordon.
He was the grandson of County Commissioner Kevin Gordon, who was also a past president of the North Carolina Firefighters' Association.
"It is with a heavy heart that we bring the news of the passing of Wyatt Gordon, grandson of NCSFA & NCAFC Past President Kevin Gordon and his wife Sherry, and son of Zach and Anne Marie Gordon," a Facebook post by the NCFA said. "The Gordon family is immensely thankful for the outpouring of support and continued prayers from everyone during this difficult time."
The community came together over the weekend to support the family, and on Saturday, a crowd of people gathered on the court square to pray for the toddler.
"We have no words for today for this heartache but we cling to a rock and a God that has a great big plan and lean on his strength to help us live in a world without our Wyatt," Anne Marie Gordon wrote on Facebook. "We can not express thank you enough for how this community and beyond has supported us during this time and continue to do so as we navigate something new."
In his obituary, Wyatt was described as sweet, independent, goofy and loving.
"He brought a light to the world that made everyone who saw him smile, he was our son-shine," the obituary said. "Strangers would come up and tell him how beautiful he was from his bright blonde hair, big blue eyes, cheeks and a smile that could brighten any day. He made a lasting impression on everyone he met, even if it was for a passing moment."
The 2-year-old loved to be outside, no matter the weather, and had a passion for fire trucks and trains.
"He never missed a moment to point them out," said his obituary. "He loved his partners in crime, Maverick and Goose. Most of all he loved his mommy, daddy and Sissy. Wyatt lived his life to the fullest every single day. In two short years, Wyatt gave us a lifetime of love and memories and reminds us everyday to find the sunshine even through the storm."
The online tribute book from the funeral home was signed by dozens of friends, family and even strangers, expressing condolences, sharing memories and offering prayers.
There will be a BBQ benefit held for the family from noon to 8 p.m. on Friday, sponsored by the Charlotte, Waco Volunteer and Fallston Volunteer fire departments. The benefit will be held at the Waco Fire Department, 421 S. Main St., Waco. The to-go plates and drive-thru pick-up will be $15 per plate, cash only, and there will be BBQ, slaw, beans, rolls and chips.
Several fundraisers have since been launched for the family, including a Gofundme to raise money to help cover medical bills with a goal of $25,000, and as of Monday afternoon, $16,000 had been raised.
Michael Pendleton, Wyatt’s uncle, started the Gofundme.
“This is Wyatt Gordon, my nephew,” he wrote. “He has suffered a tragic brain injury after falling into a pool on July 4th. This accident has affected a lot of lives and families."
This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Community mourns death of Fallston toddler
