Freeport, Illinois Randy and Lisa Redington Devastated as Their 20-Year-Old Son Jacob, Talented Wrestler Is Found Unconscious in His Dorm Room
Rest easy, Jacob.
NewsReshmaDecember 23, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 23, 2026
The community of Freeport, Illinois, is heartbroken over the sudden loss of 20-year-old Jacob Redington, who passed away on December 18, 2026.
Jacob was a junior at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa. He died in his dorm room. Police found him unconscious and not breathing shortly after 8 p.m. on Thursday.
First responders pronounced him dead at the scene. The college shared the sad news on its website. They said Jacob unexpectedly passed away. The cause of death is still unknown.
The Iowa State Medical Examiner’s Office and the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Police Department are investigating. Authorities have confirmed there is no active threat to students or the public.
Jacob was born on March 3, 2005, to his loving parents, Randy and Lisa Redington. He grew up in Freeport with his sister Jessica, who was also his best friend.
His family was incredibly supportive throughout his life. Lisa Rielly Redington works at The Swiss Colony and attended Freeport High School, just like Jacob.
Randy and Lisa raised Jacob with strong values. They encouraged his passions from a young age. Jacob belonged to the Dakota Wrestling Club early on.
His parents, Randy and Lisa Redington, were always by his side at matches and events. They cheered him on through every win and challenge.
Jacob graduated from Freeport High School in 2026. During his time there, he played freshman football. He wrestled for four years.
He also served as a student teacher at Blackhawk Elementary School in his junior and senior years.
After high school, Jacob attended Cornell College and studied to become an elementary school teacher. He also wanted to coach wrestling.
In the summers, he worked for Highland Community College’s Upward Bound program as a mentor. He loved guiding young people. In 2026, Freeport High School named him Athlete of the Year.
Wrestling was Jacob’s biggest passion. He achieved so much in the sport. He was a 2-time IESA State Qualifier. He won the 2019 IL Freestyle State Championship.
He became a 3-time NIC 10 Champion. He qualified for the Fresh-Soph IHSA State. He was a 3-time IHSA State Qualifier. In 2026, he was the Greco IL State Runner Up.
He also qualified for the Fargo IL Team three times. Jacob competed with several clubs over the years.
These included IKWF, IESA, Dakota Wrestling Club, Alber Athletics, FHS Wrestling, DeKalb Hurricanes for Summer Freestyle and Greco, Big Jim Shed, and Cornell College Wrestling.
Jacob, known for his kind heart, was passionate about mentoring and coaching youth beyond his achievements.
One of his best qualities was his loyalty. If he was in your corner, he was there for life. He celebrated your successes.
He encouraged you through tough times. Jacob was a true sports fanatic. He could tell you every stat, name every second-string player, and recall team records.
He enjoyed playing “The Game” with his friends. He was a big fan of the San Francisco 49ers, but wrestling was his world. Anything wrestling, anywhere, anytime, day or night.
To those who coached him, mentored him, or competed with or against him, your impact on his life was immeasurable. Thank you for sharing his love of the sport.
The Cornell College Wrestling team shared a heartfelt message. They said,
In the wake of this tragedy, a GiveSendGo fundraiser has been set up. It has a goal of $12,000.
The page reads,
“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Jacob Redington. Jacob was deeply loved, and his loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him. During this incredibly difficult time, we are raising funds to support his family as they navigate the days ahead. All donations will go directly to the family to help cover funeral expenses, missed work, and any immediate or ongoing needs they may have. Any amount, along with prayers, kind words, and shares, is truly appreciated as we come together to support Jacob’s family and honor his memory.”
Via FacebookJacob is survived by his parents, Randy and Lisa Redington. He leaves behind his sister and best friend, Jessica (Torry Early) Redington.
His grandparents are Ron and Linda Rielly and Judy Redington.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jim Redington.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2026, from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Walker Mortuary in Freeport.
Grand River Hall at 101 S. Liberty Ave. has offered to open their doors from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. for people to gather and celebrate Jacob.
The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, December 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Park Hills Church, 2525 W. Stephenson St. in Freeport, IL.
A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. before the service. A memorial fund has been established in his name. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.
His parents, Randy and Lisa Redington, raised a young man who touched countless lives.
Though gone too soon, his spirit lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the wrestling community. Rest easy, Jacob.
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