News Summary

The Georgia football community is grieving the loss of T. McFerrin, a legendary high school coach who passed away at 83 after a long illness. Over his 38-year career, he achieved 341 wins, directing teams to state championships and earning seven regional titles. Beyond football, McFerrin impacted various sports, leaving a lasting legacy on young athletes and coaches. His contributions were recognized with inductions into the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame. As the community remembers him, McFerrin’s influence as a mentor remains undeniable.

Georgia Football Mourns the Loss of a Legend: T. McFerrin Passes Away at 83

In a heartbreaking turn of events for the community of Georgia, beloved high school football coach T. McFerrin has passed away at the age of 83 after battling a prolonged illness. With a phenomenal coaching career that lasted an impressive 38 years, McFerrin leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Crowning Achievements and Records

During his time on the sidelines, McFerrin secured a whopping 341 wins, making him one of Georgia’s most successful coaches. His achievements include not just one, but two state championships; the first was with Elbert County in 1995, followed by another triumph with Jefferson in 2012. Remarkably, he stands alone as the only coach in Georgia’s history to guide four different schools to the state finals and achieve seven regional titles with different programs.

A Journey Through Coaching

McFerrin kicked off his coaching career back in 1965 as an assistant at Druid Hills High School. Just three years later, he took the reins at Lithonia High School, where he showcased his talents by turning around a struggling team from a disappointing record of 1-9 to an impressive 8-1-1 in his debut season. This success marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would take him to nine different high schools, including a notable stint in Tennessee.

Coaching Beyond Football

While McFerrin is best known for his prowess in football, he had a versatile coaching career that spanned multiple sports. He also made his mark in tennis, wrestling, and volleyball, even lending a helping hand in basketball and baseball. His knowledge and dedication to sports made a positive impact on countless athletes, many of whom went on to pursue successful coaching careers of their own.

Honors and Recognition

McFerrin’s incredible contributions to Georgia high school athletics did not go unnoticed. He was proudly inducted into the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2014 and followed that up with an induction into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 2018. His presence was felt deeply both on and off the field, influencing the lives of many young athletes and coaches.

A Family Affair

Born and raised in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, McFerrin played college football at Millsaps College before transferring to Middle Tennessee. His passion for education and athletics is reflected in his family’s commitment, with children who carry on his legacy in both fields. His son, Rob McFerrin, is one of those actively engaged in shaping the futures of young athletes.

A Lasting Impact

Governor Brian Kemp expressed his admiration for McFerrin, heralding the legendary coach as a mentor whose impact stretched far beyond wins and losses. Jefferson High School, where McFerrin was a significant figure, released a heartfelt statement that emphasized his extraordinary influence on their athletes, as well as his commitment to instilling life lessons that extend beyond the football field.

Final Farewell

While funeral arrangements are still pending, it is expected that services will take place on July 8 at the Lighthouse World Outreach Center in Monroe. As the community reflects on the life of T. McFerrin, it’s clear that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches alike. The spirit of a true champion lives on in each life he touched, and his contributions to Georgia high school football will forever be etched in history.

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