Michael Leach Death, Obituary – Michael Charles “Mike” Leach, the head football coach of Mississippi State University, passed suddenly last night (Monday, December 12) due to complications from a heart issue at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. He was 61. The following is what the Leach family said in a statement: “Mike was a selfless and devoted family member who served as a spouse, father, and grandfather. As a final gesture of goodwill, he was able to contribute to the organ donation process at UMMC. The outpouring of love and prayers that we have received from family, friends, Mississippi State University, the staff at the hospital, and football fans all over the world has provided us with support and elevated our spirits.
We are grateful that you were able to participate in the celebration of the life of our cherished husband and father.” The President of Mississippi State University, Mark E. Keenum, made the following statement: “Not only did Coach Mike Leach have a significant impact on the landscape of Mississippi State University football, but also on the entirety of the collegiate football scene. His ingenious “Air Raid” offense completely rewrote the rules of the game. Because of his sharp intellect and unfiltered forthrightness, Mike is considered to be one of the all-time great coaches in the country.
His passing has left our university, the Southeastern Conference, and everyone who loved college football with a deep sense of loss. I am going to miss Mike’s genuine curiosity, his honesty, and his wide-open approach to achieving excellence in everything. He will be missed.” The fragility and unpredictability of our lives are both brought into sharper focus by Mike’s passing. We were together in the locker room three weeks ago, celebrating a hard-fought victory in Oxford. Mike and I were both there. Mike Leach had a genuine appreciation for life and spent his life in such a way that he did not have any regrets. That’s a good legacy to leave behind. During these difficult days and hours, may God shower his blessings upon the Leach family.
They are in the thoughts and prayers of everyone in the Bulldog family “Keenum stated. Bracky Brett, who is serving as the interim athletics director at MSU, stated: “The news of Mike Leach’s passing has left us inconsolable and utterly shattered. Today, the sport of college football lost one of its most cherished icons, but his legacy will live on in perpetuity. Over the course of several decades, Mike’s vibrant personality, commanding presence, and remarkable leadership had a profound impact on millions of athletes, students, coaches, fans, and family and friends.