Son of former Georgia Southern standout Adrian Peterson passes away

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STATESBORO, GA (WTOC) - Adrian Peterson reported on his Facebook page that his 6-year-old son, AJ, passed away on Tuesday morning. AJ was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor last year.

Peterson released this statement on his Facebook page: "#Ajsoars is in Heaven, where he belongs... #ajsoar #P3 #MyFirstSuperHero."

Thousands have shown their support over the past several months by raising money, supporting rallies, and praying for the family.

You might say it takes an extraordinary football player to set NCAA records, win national championships and lead a team to retire their number, but friends of Peterson said he's an even more extraordinary father and husband to lead a family during the terminal illness of a child.

AJ sometimes shied away from the cameras, even when he was the focus, like a benefit breakfast last summer. Friends of his father rallied to help the family, but Adrian Peterson talked that day, and others, about the form of brain cancer his young son faced.

Former Eagle teammate and friend Andre Weathers said the Petersons used the spotlight to educate others.

"They have made more people away, and they have used it as a positive," Weathers said.

No doubt AP had a bigger audience to inform after his legendary years at Georgia Southern and career in the NFL, but Adrian's faith and grace have impressed plent of Eagles after him.

"It's just a credit to him and his family to use this as a platform to help other people," said GSU Head Coach Willie Fritz.

The Petersons let people know cancer can touch anybody, even the little boy of a football player. Weathers said Adrian always let his ability do the talking on the field, and off the field?

"Same thing," Weathers said. "His actions speak louder than words."

Weathers said he and countless others mourn for AJ's death, but they also hold up Adrian's courage as a testimony to parents everywhere.

Adrian Peterson set countless school, conference and NCAA records as an Eagles running back. He also spent 10 years in the NFL with the Chicago Bears.

Funeral details are as follows:

Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church

1365 Kinlaw Rd.

Kingsland, GA 31548

All flowers can be sent to:

Royal Funeral Home

247 W. Pine Street

Jesup, GA 31598