The tragic loss of Danny Duray has deeply shaken his family, teammates, and everyone who knew him. Danny, a promising football kicker and student at Southeast Missouri State University, passed away on February 11, 2026, at the young age of 20.
Reports indicate he died by suicide after struggling with mental health challenges.
His sudden passing has created a large emptiness, especially for his parents, Samuel and Sally Duray, who are deeply grieving the loss of their son.
Danny was born on October 12, 2005, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, to Samuel (often called Sam) and Sally Duray. He grew up in the nearby Mount Prospect area with his brother and sister in a supportive, close family.
From early on, his parents encouraged his love for sports and the outdoors. Danny was a big Chicago Bears fan and found real joy in simple things like fishing on calm lakes, playing soccer, and hitting the gym to stay in shape.
At John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights, Danny made his mark as a versatile athlete. He played both football and soccer for the Huskies, graduating in 2024.
As a senior kicker, he stood out with 17 touchbacks and nailed one field goal in limited games, showing the precision and determination that would carry him forward.
Danny started his college journey at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), where he redshirted as a true freshman in 2024.
Standing 6’1″ and weighing around 191 pounds, he played the kicker position and worked hard to earn his spot. In 2025, he took his talents to the College of DuPage, where he really shone.
As the Chaparrals’ kicker, he went 32-of-33 on extra points, made 10-of-13 field goals (with a long of 52 yards), and scored 62 points overall. He even earned NJCAA Special Teams Player of the Week honors twice.
That strong season brought him back to SEMO as a sophomore, majoring in business administration (with some sources noting an interest in accounting).
Danny wasn’t just about football. He balanced intense practices with a genuine, easygoing personality that teammates and coaches loved. His work ethic, kindness, and positive attitude made him someone people naturally gravitated toward.
The SEMO community shared their grief right away. Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Brady Barke released a statement saying that it was with a heavy heart that they announced the loss of one of their student-athletes.
He called it a heartbreaking moment for the department, campus, and especially those closest to Danny, adding that thoughts and prayers were with the Duray family.
Head Football Coach Tom Matukewicz spoke from the heart, too:
“Today is one of the hardest days I’ve experienced as a coach. We lost a young man who mattered deeply to our program and to so many. Our team is hurting. Danny’s family is hurting. We are going to wrap our arms around them the best we can and walk through this pain together.”
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Tributes have poured in from teammates, friends, and fans, remembering Danny’s dedication, his steady presence on the field, and the light he brought to those around him.
His story has also sparked important conversations about mental health support for student-athletes facing pressure from sports, school, and life.
Danny is survived by his parents, Samuel and Sally Duray, his siblings, other family, and a wide circle of friends and teammates who will carry his memory forward.
In the midst of this sorrow, the focus remains on supporting Danny Duray’s parents and loved ones as they face their grief.
His life, though far too short, touched many, and that’s a legacy worth remembering. If you’re struggling, please reach out; help is always there.
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