The global track and field and sports community in general, the Knox College family, and countless Jamaican hearts were left shattered on Saturday with the sudden and tragic passing of Rae McFarlane, a retired Sergeant First Class in the United States Army, who died in a car crash in the United States. Born in September 1967, Rae was 57 years old and just a few months shy of his 58th birthday. His death sent shockwaves through multiple communities, silencing a voice that had cheered relentlessly from the sidelines of stadiums and schoolyards around the world.

A man of boundless energy, unshakable pride, and deep-rooted patriotism, Rae wasn’t just a soldier in uniform — he was a soldier of spirit. Known affectionately as “BigSarge,” he was a larger-than-life presence wherever he went, showing up in the most unexpected corners of the globe to wave the Jamaican flag, support athletes, or represent the blue of Knox College.

From Lefrak City in New York to Jeju Island in South Korea, Rae’s journey as a passionate supporter began more than four decades ago. Ridley Ingram, a close friend, remembered their friendship that began in 1985. “This journey started 40 years ago,” he said. “Almost 40 countries later — chasing sunrise on Jeju Island, riding a train in Russia with puss, dog, goat, and pig in the same car, sleeping in army base parking lots — we became brothers.”

Rae’s footprint on the track and field world was unique. As a photographer, he ran in the media race at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow. He was there when Usain Bolt crossed finish lines. He was there for meets both local and international. Coaches and athletes across generations knew and cherished him — not just for his infectious laugh, but for the joy and pride he radiated.

Rae was also the best friend of 1996 Olympic 100m champion Donovan Bailey, and two days before his death, he proudly shared a photo of himself holding Bailey’s memoir Undisputed on Facebook, encouraging his followers to read or listen to the audiobook.

“A very good read. Author: Donovan Bailey, a born Manchestrian and Knoxite. Get your copy on Amazon. The audio book is good also.”

Beyond the stands and sidelines, Rae had plans — big ones. He was deeply invested in rebuilding the track and field programme at his beloved Knox College. His vision was a five-year plan that would begin by identifying and nurturing potential athletes from Grade 7 each year, gradually restoring the school's reputation as a competitive force in Jamaican athletics. It was typical Rae — committed to building not only memories, but legacies.

Rae’s journey was wide-ranging and colourful. He served as an assistant athletics coach at St. Jago High, GC Foster College, and his alma mater Knox College. A certified sports massage therapist, Rae studied at G.C. Foster College and Troy University and held multiple positions across the U.S. military and defence sectors — from Avionics Maintenance Chief to Automotive Technician.

Rae’s long-standing friendships extended into Jamaican journalism. The country’s most senior sportswriters and broadcasters knew him well and held him in high esteem. Whether it was offering historical insight, sharing exclusive images from behind the scenes, or just being a familiar and a welcome face at global events, Rae was part of the fabric.

Rain Clarke, a former schoolmate, recalled a touching memory: “I was in 12th grade in the USA. He was in Japan, in the army. He called randomly and said ‘Guess who?’ Without hesitation I said, ‘Rae McFarlane.’ He mailed me a photo that took ages to arrive, but it did. That was Rae. Always present, even from afar.”

He stayed connected. Eleven days before his death, he texted a photo of a 7 Pennant. Just weeks before, he was checking on old friends, planning events, promoting the Knox Summer Fish Fry, and sharing memories from the “Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise.” Whether it was capturing life through his lens, coordinating linkups, or simply cheering on Jamaica’s stars, Rae was a heartbeat in every room.

The Knox Past Students’ Association offered a tribute fitting for a man whose veins pulsed with red and blue pride:

“A true soldier in every sense. An unabashed Knoxite to the core. We are forever indebted to you for your support of our illustrious institution called Knox College.”

Sherry Southe, reflecting on Rae’s tireless dedication, added,

“Your photographic skills captured life’s precious moments. You always promoted, always shared, always gave. Your legacy will continue to inspire.”

Even Jamaican sporting legends like Bertland Cameron and his wife Yvonne Spence-Cameron were touched by Rae’s generosity and heart.

“He was one of the unsung heroes of this country,” they wrote. “Always jovial, always ready to help, picking us up from airports across the world. May his soul rest in peace.”

In life, Rae McFarlane didn’t need a spotlight — he was the spotlight. He was that steady presence in the background making sure others felt seen, felt supported, felt loved. His death has left a void that echoes in stadiums, in army bases, in Knox College corridors, and in the hearts of those lucky enough to know him.

He lived with purpose, served with honour, and loved without limits.

Rest well, BigSarge. You’ve earned your place among the angels.