While many Pelham High School students were celebrating graduation May 27, many more were mourning the death of junior Porcia Murrill, who died as a result of a broken neck after falling down the stairs at her home May 26.

Assistant Principal Jeff Schrupp said the news of Murrill’s death came as a complete shock to the Pelham High School family.

Schrupp said he taught Murrill in ninth grade, and she was an honors student who was involved in many activities such as JROTC.

“She was a really motivated, strong student,” Schrupp said. “She was very likable, very popular and just a wonderful person.”

Schrupp said counselors were on hand today to speak with any students who wished to talk about Murrill’s passing.

Shelby County spokesperson Cindy Warner attended church with Murrill at Valleydale Baptist, and she said the 17-year-old will be missed by many.

“She was absolutely beautiful and she had a very kind and beautiful heart,” Warner said. Those of us that knew her can tell you that she will very much be missed.”

There was also a prayer service in honor of Murrill May 27 at 3:30 p.m. at Valleydale Baptist Church

Visitation will be at Valleydale Baptist from 5-8 p.m. May 28, and funeral services will be at the church at 10 a.m. May 29.

Burial will follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens South.