Greenwich Student, 16, Remembered For Having 'A Heart Of Gold'

GREENWICH, CT — The Greenwich community is mourning the loss of Reef Baker, a 16-year-old Greenwich High School student who died unexpectedly on Aug. 1.

Greenwich Public Schools sent a notification to families last week on Baker's death, calling the news "sad and unspeakable."

"On behalf of the entire Greenwich Public Schools, we will keep Reef Baker’s family in our thoughts during these extremely difficult times and hope that they are surrounded by the ones that love them the most," the school district said.

A GoFundMe fundraiser was created by Baker's family, with all proceeds going toward funeral and burial expenses. A funeral was scheduled for Wednesday, according to his obituary.

"Reef had a heart of gold. He would help those in need, friends and strangers alike. In his tragically short life, he touched many lives and brought much love and happiness to his family, friends, and his community. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him," the GoFundMe description said.

Baker had a twin sister, with whom he had "a special, unbreakable bond."

"They were best friends, who did everything together. Rainey never thought that she would travel through life without Reef by her side. They had countless dreams, endless plans and travels planned for a bright and promising future together that will never be realized. We are certain that Reef will be standing beside Rainey from heaven, making sure that she has him as her guardian angel," the fundraiser's description continued.

Baker surfed, skateboarded and was an avid sailor. He raced with the Palm Beach Sailing Club team and the GHS varsity sailing team.

"Reef had love and respect for the world's oceans. He wanted to make a difference, for the better, of all ocean life which is integral to our ocean's ecosystem," the GoFundMe added. "Reef admired Jacques Cousteau, a pioneer of ocean conservation, and worked together with Jacques' grandson on a year-long school project in Cousteau’s honor.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the GoFundMe raised $36,564 out of a $37,000 goal.

Greenwich students looking for extra support are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor or social worker this week, the school district said.

Read Reef Baker's full obituary here.
For more on the GoFundMe, click here.