Coy Featherson, once a celebrated high school athlete and popular student, found himself homeless for the past two decades. In 1971, he was voted “Best All Around Guy” and earned a football scholarship to college, later working with rock legend Frank Zappa. However, a series of tragic events, including the loss of his brother and job, led to his downfall. Since then, he faced the harsh realities of life on the streets.
Recently, Featherson’s story took a turn when a photograph of him with his belongings in a grocery cart appeared on the front page of the American-Statesman. This exposure shocked many, including Leea Mechling, a high school friend who immediately set out to find him in Austin, Texas. After four days of searching, she finally located him outside a church, where she embraced him and offered him a ride.
Mechling’s efforts were just the beginning. Don Vanderburg, another former classmate, welcomed Featherson into his home, providing him with a mattress for the first time in years. His friends rallied together to help him get new clothes and shoes and assisted him in applying for social security benefits. They also launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $13,000 for more permanent housing.
Patrick Judd, who initiated the GoFundMe page, expressed the collective sentiment of their group: “Coy is a smart guy with a real gift for art and music.” Their goal is not only to provide immediate assistance but also to show Featherson that he remains cherished and remembered by those who knew him well.
Reflecting on the impact of the photo that reignited hope in his life, Featherson remarked that he had an inkling it would lead to something positive. His story goes a long way to paint in living colours the importance of friendship and the kindness that exists when we embrace each other.