Jacob J. 'Coby' St. Phard led Notre Dame's soccer team in assists and recently pledged to play for Susquehanna University
EAST WINDSOR - Memorial services have been announced for Jacob J. "Coby" St. Phard, the high school soccer star who died Sunday after being struck by an NJ Transit train in Hamilton.
Jacob J. 'Coby' St. Phard in this 2014 file photo. (Martin Griff/The Times) St. Phard, 18, a senior at Notre Dame High School in Lawrence Township, was struck on the tracks just west of the Hamilton train station around 8:20 p.m. by a train heading for maintenance in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. An investigation into St. Phard's death is ongoing, officials have said.
A service will be held 11 a.m. Friday at Princeton Alliance Church, 20 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro. A private funeral will be held at a later date through Barlow & Zimmer Funeral Home, Hightstown, according to St. Phard's obituary.
Donations in lieu of flowers will be accepted to a memorial fund in Coby's name to be opened at a later date.
Notre Dame HS soccer player killed by train had 'greatest personality'
St. Phard had committed to play soccer for Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. He starred for Notre Dame his senior season, leading the Irish in assists and finishing second in goals.
St. Phard started his soccer career playing youth soccer for East Windsor PAL. He was recently a member of the East Brunswick United soccer team.
"He had the greatest personality, was the hardest worker on the team and was totally committed," Julian Richens, coach of the United team, has said. "I can't speak highly enough about him."
Coby had the honor of being named All CVC and All State during numerous years, according to the obituary.
Coby traveled to Exuma, Bahamas, where he took part on a Mission trip. He also helped with Christmas parties that benefited his grandfather's ministry, The Word In Action International, according to the obituary.
Coby is survived by his parents, Vladimir and Rachelle St. Phard of East Windsor; one sister, Kyler of East Windsor; grandmother, Gladys Bruno, grandfather, Joses St. Phard and his wife Chantal and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Condolences can be left by visiting barlowzimmer.com.
Keith Brown may be reached at kbrown@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @KBrownTrenton. Find The Times of Trenton on Facebook.