A Bright Life Cut Short: Remembering William “Will” Wood

The city of Melbourne is in mourning after the tragic death of William “Will” Wood, a 16-year-old student from Scotch College who passed away on October 9, 2025, after taking his own life. Will’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving his family, friends, teachers, and peers struggling to comprehend how someone so bright, kind, and full of potential could be lost so soon.

Born on December 13, 2008, Will was known for his sharp wit, kindness, and quiet strength. To those who knew him best — his friends, teachers, and family — Will was a light. His laughter was contagious, and his ability to listen without judgment made him a cherished companion. Will was a young soul with a deep capacity for empathy, always quick to offer support to those in need. His friends remember him as someone who always had their backs, someone who could make them smile even in the toughest of times.

Though Will’s life was cut tragically short, his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His passing serves as a painful reminder of the invisible struggles many young people face, often hidden behind a smile. The shock and sadness surrounding Will’s death underscore the importance of compassion, openness, and mental health awareness — especially for those who may feel they have nowhere to turn.

A Heartfelt Tribute: The Impact Will Had on Those Around Him

Will was much more than a student; he was a friend, a son, and a source of joy to everyone who knew him. His Scotch College teachers remember him as a student brimming with potential — thoughtful, intelligent, and eager to explore the world. He had dreams, aspirations, and an incredible capacity to make a difference. Will was loved by his peers for his ability to lift the spirits of everyone around him. Whether through his humor, his loyalty, or his deep compassion, Will was a bright light in a world that can sometimes feel too dark.

A close friend of Will’s shared, “He was the one who made everyone laugh, the one who listened without judgment, and the one who cared. Will made life better for everyone who knew him.” His friends have come together to honor his memory, sharing stories of his kindness, his humor, and the deep friendship he gave freely.

In his short 16 years, Will touched so many lives. The impact he had — as a friend, as a son, and as a person — will be remembered forever. The Scotch College community has been left heartbroken, and many are now rallying together to support each other during this time of grief.

️ Honoring Will’s Memory: A Community in Mourning

A funeral service will be held at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church in Toorak to celebrate Will’s life and legacy. Family, friends, and the Scotch College community will come together to say goodbye, to reflect, and to share memories of a young man who had so much to offer. The service will be a time for healing, a moment to come together and honor the life of a boy who was loved deeply by so many.

In the wake of Will’s death, the community has united to emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and support. The Scotch College community has encouraged open dialogue about mental well-being, urging everyone to look out for one another and to reach out for help if needed. As grief continues to reverberate throughout the school, teachers, friends, and loved ones are working to ensure Will’s memory lives on through acts of kindness and compassion.

While nothing can replace the pain of losing Will, his story will continue to inspire those who knew him to live with more understanding, more empathy, and more love for those who may be silently struggling. His spirit, laughter, and generosity of heart will never be forgotten.

May William “Will” Wood rest in peace, and may his family and loved ones find solace in the love and support surrounding them during this devastating time.