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The Red Level community is mourning the loss of Kentravious Likely who was the victim of a drowning on Point A Lake Monday afternoon.

Kentravious was a 2023 graduate of Red Level School where he was a student-athlete, participating in football and track. Red Level Principal Tony Ingram said Kentravious’ character stood out both on and off the field.

“It’s hard to put into words the kind of person Kentravious was — his spirit, his selflessness, and the impact he had on everyone around him,” Ingram said. “Ken wasn’t just a student or an athlete — he was the kind of young man who left a mark on every heart he touched. Teachers respected him, students admired him, and teammates trusted him.

“Beyond his athletic abilities, it was his character that stood out. He was a talented running back, no doubt about that. But when his team needed him most during his senior year, and injuries hit the offensive line hard, Ken didn’t hesitate. He stepped up, switching positions without complaint, giving up personal glory for the good of the team. That’s who he was — selfless, committed, and mature beyond his years. He understood the value of hard work, teamwork, and sacrifice. Ken’s willingness to embrace the thankless role of an offensive lineman speaks volumes about his heart. He didn’t need the spotlight — he just wanted to help. His legacy is one of humility, leadership, and love — a young man who gave his best in everything and uplifted those around him. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Jed Blackwell, an active member of the Red Level community and with the school, remembers Kentravious as a good student and a good friend.

“I took Kentravious to practice every day. He was a friend to my son, Connor, and through different school programs in the Red Level community,” Blackwell said. “Kentravious was a very likable young man who all of us in the Red Level community loved. He had an infectious smile and simply loved life. He was a great football player and loved playing the game. He will be greatly missed. The memories we all shared with him will live forever in our hearts.”

Zykerria Likely, cousin of Kentravious, said Kentravious was kind to others and quick to make friends.

“One of the most remarkable things about my cousin was his ability to connect with anyone he met,” Zykerria said. “He was able to adapt to people’s personalities without ever changing who he was. Whether you were outgoing or quiet, serious or silly, he made you feel comfortable and understood. That’s what made him everybody’s friend — he met people where they were and always found a way to make them feel seen.

“Beyond that, he carried a presence that just made people feel better. He was the kind of person who could walk into a room and light it up with his energy, or sit in silence with you if that’s what you needed. He never forced connections; they just happened effortlessly around him. I think that’s why so many people were drawn to him, because being around him felt easy, natural, and real.”

She also thanked the community for its support and the efforts of the first responders.

“I want to extend the deepest and most heartfelt thank you to our men in blue. In a world where they often face harsh criticism, these officers showed our family nothing but kindness, patience, and compassion during one of the hardest days of our lives. Secondly, to our Red Level family — no words will ever fully capture the love and appreciation I have for each of you. Being a part of a small school is a blessing, because it doesn’t just create classmates — it creates a lifelong family,” Zykerria said.

A funeral service was held for Kentravious on Thursday at Buck Creek Baptist Church in Red Level. Arrangements were provided by Marshall-Hammond Funeral Home.

Kentravious is survived by his mother, Laquita Likely; grandparents, Clifford and Linda Likely; an aunt, Lucinda Likely; and three uncles, Derrick Likely, Clifford Likely Jr., and Elliot Likely.

“Our prayers go out to the Likely family,” Ingram said. “They are such a fine family and mean so much to the Red Level community.”

According to the River Falls Police Department, Kentravious and some friends swam to water buoys on Point A Lake. Witnesses reported that Kentravious was last seen holding on to a buoy and that a friend went back to try and help, but was unable to retrieve him due to the strong current.

The River Falls boat and dive team, Opp’s fire and Rescue dive team, and the Covington County Sheriff’s Office, along with other local and state agencies, were involved in the search for Kentravious, which ended at 5:52 p.m. that evening.

“This incident is a tragedy in our community and our thoughts and prayers are with the family,” said River Falls Police Chief Marcus Laster.