Candace Beggs, 18, a Howard Payne University freshman and pastor’s daughter, was killed Oct. 26 outside Mexia in a two-car crash.
She was the daughter of Darrel and Denise Beggs. He is pastor of First Baptist Church in Teague. Candace was returning to Howard Payne after a trip to Teague to participate in homecoming activities.
The accident occurred on Highway 84 east of Mexia around 5 p.m. Four people in the other vehicle, two women and two children, were hospitalized with serious injuries.
Beggs was majoring in cross-cultural studies, with a minor in English at the Brownwood school.
“All our hearts are hurting right now as we mourn the loss of Candace,” said Brad Johnson, vice president for enrollment and student services. “As the HPU campus comes together to support each other, our thoughts and prayers remain with the Beggs family.”
Candace’s Old Testament teacher Jay Smith, assistant professor of Christian Studies, commented: “Candace was very studious and was always concerned about the quality of her work. She was very focused and wanted to do well. Candace also possessed a strong faith and always wanted to be found faithful. This is a sore loss for all of us at Howard Payne, but we can find joy in knowing that she is in heaven today with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
She is survived by her parents; sister, Charis; and brother, Jeremy.
A candlelight vigil allowing students, faculty and staff to join together in prayer will be held on the HPU campus tonight, Oct. 27, at 9 p.m. at the Old Main Tower.
Funeral services have been set for 10 a.m. Wednesday morning at First Baptist Church, Teague.
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Burial will be Wednesday afternoon at Chalk Mountain Cemetery in Glen Rose. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bowers Funeral Home on Hwy. 84 in Teague.
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