Teen Prom King, 17, passes away only an hour
Tragedy at Rathbun Lake
On June 26, 2024, 17-year-old Ayden Beeson, a Centerville High School student and recent Prom King, drowned while swimming at Rathbun Lake.
He was reported missing, and within an hour rescuers found him in 15–20 feet of water.
Swift Response
The Appanoose County Sheriff’s Office and Water Rescue unit quickly launched a search after a 911 call reported a possible drowning.
Despite their efforts, Ayden was pronounced d**d at the scene.
Loss to the Community
Ayden was a football leader, tennis player, and admired student.
His warmth and kindness left a lasting mark on classmates and teachers alike.
Remembered with Love
“Such a great kid lost in the prime of his life is devastating for our community,
for his family, and for the lives he was going to impact,” said Superintendent Mark Taylor.
“He was kind to everyone. There wasn’t a single person he couldn’t be nice to.”
