The community of French Camp, French Camp Academy and Choctaw County came together Monday to remember three students killed in a house fire in December.
A memorial service to honor Sharron Naik, 17, Joy Naik, 15, and Aaron Naik, 14, was held Monday, January 14 at 10:30 a.m. in the French Camp Presbyterian Church.
Rusty McKnight, French Camp Academy principal, explained the importance of holding the memorial service.
“This was a good opportunity to remember, honor and celebrate their lives,” said McKnight. “They were great kids who were well known and respected in the community.”
The event was well-attended by many of the students from French Camp Academy, families of students, staff and the community. The large crowd attested to the lives the three students had touched.
“Their lives touched so many,” said McKnight. He added, “They were encouragers, friendly and had a heart for the Lord and serving others.”
McKnight noted that counselors have been on hand at the school as well as in the dorms for the students and staff. Counselors were also available at the memorial service.
“We continue to provide support and encourage the students and staff to talk about it (the loss of the three fellow students),” said McKnight.
He noted that all touched by the lives of the Naik children were working through the grieving process. McKnight thanked all those who have been in prayer and been supportive of the Naik Family and French Camp Academy.
“We appreciate the support and prayers. We are very thankful to all the schools, churches and families who have prayed and been supportive during this time,” said McKnight.
The fire started on December 23 around 11 p.m. in a home in Collierville, Tennessee, where the three teens were staying over the Christmas break. An investigation later determined that the blaze was started by a fireplace ember landing on the Christmas tree.
In addition to the three French Camp students, Kari Coudriet of Collierville also died in the fire. Coudriet’s son and husband, Daniel, along with a neighbor and a police officer, suffered injuries at the fire while trying to help the victims.
