Harpeth graduate, Cumberland soccer player Ethan Gailey dies at 19
Ethan Gailey, a 2025 Harpeth High School graduate and former soccer player, died Aug. 29 following a motorcycle accident. He was 19.
Ethan Gailey, a 2025 Harpeth High School graduate and former soccer player, died Aug. 29 following a motorcycle accident. He was 19.
A GoFundMe has been established to support Gailey’s family as they navigate the sudden loss and help ease the financial burden of expenses following his death. The GoFundMe raised more than $10,000 within the first 24 hours.
Gailey was remembered in his obituary as a beloved son, brother, fiancé, friend and teammate whose faith, kindness and infectious personality touched those around him.
He played soccer for Harpeth High School for four years before continuing his career at Cumberland University, where he played on the men’s junior varsity team. Cumberland athletics confirmed his death in a statement.
“The Cumberland University athletics family is heartbroken by the passing of student-athlete Ethan Gailey, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident over the weekend,” the university said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ethan's family, friends, teammates, coaches, and all those who knew and loved him during this tough time.”
According to the GoFundMe, Gailey was known for his love of soccer, spending time outdoors, riding jet skis and four-wheelers and, perhaps most simply, taking a good nap.
“He had an infectious personality and a grin that would instantly put a smile on your face,” the fundraiser says.
The fundraiser was created by the Fakhoorian family on behalf of Gailey’s parents, Mark and Holly Gailey. It asks the community to help the family with everyday expenses so they can focus on one another and begin navigating life after Ethan’s death.
“Ethan was a good one,” the fundraiser states. “If you were lucky enough to know him then you loved him. You just couldn’t help it.”
Gailey also leaves behind his brother, Andrew, and his fiancée, Lily, whom his family described as an especially important part of his life.
A celebration of life for Gailey is expected to be held soon, with details to be announced.
