MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Bartlett teenager who ended up in a fight for his life after coming down with the flu has died, according to his father.
Caleb Davis died at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital just before 3 a.m. Saturday after 52 days of illness, according to a post on a social media page dedicated to him. He was 16.
“It is with broken hearts that we grieve Calebs passing. But with grateful hearts that we celebrate his homecoming with Jesus, and he no longer suffers,” a friend wrote on the Facebook page, relaying a message from Caleb’s parents.
Davis’ algebra teacher at Bartlett High School remembers him as a gifted student who would tutor his classmates.
“He would always step up. He was one of those that could turn around and teach his classmates what we just went over,” said Elizabeth Butner.
Butner said Monday was an emotional day for students and staff and that grief counselors were on hand.
“We’ve spent the day in tears at school,” she said.
Davis came down with the flu February 12 and ended up in a hospital emergency room just a couple of days later.
The flu soon turned into pneumonia, and Davis was placed on life support.
“He never missed school, ever, and so to tell his mom he was sick and within 48 hours to be on life support is just insane. I mean, this kid was the picture of health,” said Butner.