So touched that Edwards is paying for the Lakewood High School student's funeral.

Douglas' mother, Tara, confirmed that fact last night after completing arrangements for her son's service, at noon on Friday at Second Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland, and his burial at West Park Cemetery.

"I'm very pleased," Tara Douglas said of Edwards' generosity. "He's a very, very nice guy."

Edwards said he learned the family was trying to raise money for the funeral and wanted to help.

"No mother should have to worry about how to provide a proper burial for her son," Edwards said.

Douglas underwent a heart transplant in July 2006, but his body later rejected the organ.

He idolized Edwards, and his family contacted the Browns, hoping to set up a meeting. Although they couldn't talk during their 30 minutes together — because Douglas was breathing through a tube — Edwards gave Douglas a No. 17 jersey and the game ball he'd been awarded after the Miami Dolphins game.

Douglas passed away Oct. 26.

Tara Douglas said her son will be laid to rest wearing Edwards' jersey and cradling the football in his arm.