Not only did Derrick Nelson make education for the younger generation a priority, he also made sure if he could save a young man or woman’s life, he would. However, the 44-year old New Jersey principal has died as a result of his heroic ways.

Per NY Post, Nelson fell into a coma during his bone marrow procedure in February. The marrow was for a sick 14-year old boy in France whom he never met.

Nelson died Sunday and his father, Willie Nelson, said he was gone after the procedure.

“After the procedure he did, he couldn’t speak and was lying in the bed. His eyes were open and he realized who we were. But he couldn’t move. He never spoke again,” his father said.

Besides the educational system, Nelson served time in the military and in the Middle East.

He is survived by his fiancee and their 6-year old daughter.