The Mortimer Jordan High School student killed in a traffic crash is being remembered for her love for her family and her support of her school.

Dakota Graves was killed midday Wednesday in a head-on crash in northern Jefferson County. She was killed on her 17th birthday.

Graves had been checked out of school for a celebratory lunch in honor of her 17th birthday.

“Dakota loved her family and friends BIG,’’ school officials said in a Friday Facebook post.

A GoFundMe has been started to help Graves’ family with all the expenses associated with her death.

The two-vehicle crash happened at 12:15 p.m. Wednesday on Warrior Jasper Road near Mount Olive Road.

Authorities said Graves was a passenger in a pickup truck that collided head-on with a Chevrolet work truck that was pulling a tractor.

Graves was pronounced dead on the scene at 12:25 p.m. Two other women in the pickup – both adults – were taken to the hospital for treatment.

One of the two men in the work truck was also hospitalized.

None of the survivors sustained life-threatening injuries.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team was called to the scene to conduct an investigate the cause and incidents surrounding the fatal crash.

“Our hearts are broken today for the family of Dakota Graves,’’ said Jefferson County Schools Superintendent Walter Gonsoulin. “They are in my prayers, along with the Mortimer Jordan family and all of Dakota’s friends.”

“We have been reminded too often this school year how fleeting life can be,’’ Gonsoulin said.

“Dakota’s friendly spirit and big smile are missed in our hallways and classrooms,’’ according to the school’s statement. “Over the last few days, many students and teachers have shared their stories of time spent with Dakota.”

“Mixed with our tears and sadness, the memories have also brought laughter and smiles,’’ the post read, “and that’s certainly the way Dakota would want it.”

Donations to the GoFundMe can be made here.