Ayden J. Scharper, a beloved son, brother, teammate, and friend, passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He was 19 years old.
A 2023 graduate of Southern Lehigh High School, Ayden was known for his athletic talent, artistic vision, and compassionate spirit. On the field, he distinguished himself as a standout kicker and punter, earning a 4.5-star ranking from Kohl’s Kicking and all-area honors in both football and soccer.
At Southern Lehigh, he served as the varsity football team’s kicker and punter and the soccer team’s goalkeeper. He continued his football journey at Muhlenberg College, where he averaged 41.2 yards per punt and celebrated his first collegiate point with a PAT against TCNJ.
Beyond athletics, Ayden was a gifted visual artist with a passion for analog film photography. He captured moments with a thoughtful eye, sharing his work through a personal website and social media. “I enjoy having to carefully plan out a shot, and by doing so, making it perfect,” he once wrote—an insight into both his artistry and character.
Ayden also gave back. Through a “Kick-it” campaign, he raised awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research, using his platform to support causes greater than himself.
He is deeply mourned by his loving parents, Noah and Jessica Scharper, and his younger brother, as well as extended family, teammates, coaches, and countless friends whose lives he touched. He would have celebrated his 20th birthday on August 24.
Ayden’s passing is a profound loss, and his family encourages open conversations about mental health and wellness in his memory. The Allentown Police Department continues to assist in the investigation, and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office has determined the manner of death to be suicide, with no foul play suspected.
Ayden’s light, creativity, and kindness live on in the memories of those who knew and loved him. His legacy is one of courage, generosity, and an enduring passion for life.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ayden’s name to mental health or cancer research organizations of your choice.
