News Summary

The high school football community in Monroe, Georgia, is mourning the loss of coaching legend T. McFerrin, who passed away at 83 due to Alzheimer’s complications. McFerrin had a stellar 38-season career with 341 wins and multiple state championships to his name. Known for his caring coaching style, he impacted countless athletes and young coaches alike, earning induction into multiple halls of fame. Tributes have begun flowing in as the community remembers a true icon in high school sports.

Georgia’s High School Football Community Mourns the Loss of Coaching Legend T. McFerrin

In a sad turn of events, the vibrant town of Monroe has lost one of its most iconic figures. T. McFerrin, a renowned high school football coach, passed away at the age of 83 due to complications related to Alzheimer’s and dementia. The news came just this past Tuesday, leaving behind a colossal legacy that has shaped countless lives within Georgia’s high school football scene.

A Career Marked by Excellence

Over his remarkable 38-season coaching career, McFerrin built an impressive record of 341 wins, 101 losses, and 4 ties. His coaching journey began in 1965 when he took the role of an assistant at Druid Hills High School. It wasn’t long before he became the head coach at Lithonia High School in 1968, where he made an immediate impact by leading the team to a stellar record of 8-1-1 in his inaugural season.

McFerrin’s coaching talents took him to various schools across Georgia and even Tennessee. He had stints at Forest Park, Sullivan Central, Peachtree, Southeast Whitfield, Tucker, Elbert County, South Gwinnett, and most recently, Jefferson. His remarkable ability to elevate athletic programs was showcased when he took South Gwinnett from a dismal 0-10 season previously to achieving a .500 record or better in six of his seven years there.

State Championships and Region Titles Galore

During his career, McFerrin led his teams to two celebrated state championships, first at Elbert County in 1995 and later at Jefferson in 2012. He made history in Georgia by becoming the only coach to lead seven different schools to region titles and to guide four different teams to state championship games. His strategic understanding of the game and motivational approach made a lasting impression on both players and fellow coaches alike.

While at Peachtree High, McFerrin’s team not only snagged four region championships but also made a trip to the state championship game. His final game as a head coach was truly a storybook ending, as he celebrated a Class AA state championship victory with Jefferson, achieving a record of 14-1 in that season.

A Coach Who Cared

What set McFerrin apart was his positive and detail-oriented coaching style. He was known to emphasize the importance of treating players with care and respect, a quality that left an indelible mark on the hearts of many young athletes. His influence extended beyond the Xs and Os of football; he mentored many young coaches who looked up to him as a guiding light, including names like Dave Hunter and Mark Crews.

A Lasting Legacy

McFerrin’s contributions to athletics were not limited to football alone. He also coached tennis, wrestling, and volleyball, and assisted in basketball and baseball, showcasing his versatility and love for sports in general. His dedication to fostering sportsmanship and teamwork made a significant impact on generations of students.

In recognition of his remarkable achievements, McFerrin was inducted into the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 2018. These honors are a testament to his incredible contributions to the world of athletics.

Remembering a Legend

The news of McFerrin’s passing has resonated deeply within the community, with tributes pouring in from all corners that highlight his influence over countless athletes and coaches. Funeral services are set to take place at 1 p.m. on July 8 at the Lighthouse World Outreach Center in Monroe, followed by a reception at the First United Methodist Church.

As Georgia remembers this legendary coach, it is clear that T. McFerrin’s legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of high school sports for years to come. He will be sorely missed, but his contributions will never be forgotten.

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