John H. Coffee

John Henry Coffee, 80, “Coach” as he was better known, passed away peacefully at Hospice of Dayton following a courageous battle with cancer. John was born on January 2, 1946 to Frankie and Tressie (Nickell) Coffee in Dayton, Ohio. He attended Jefferson Township schools and graduated in 1965. After graduation he served proudly in the U.S. Army for two years and received his honorable discharge in 1968.

John was employed at General Motors (later Delphi) for over 30 years. He was a dedicated millwright who lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty and service. But his real passion was for basketball coaching as his love for the game was present throughout his adult life.

For many years, Coach Coffee could be found in a gymnasium, on the sidelines, or talking basketball with anyone willing to listen. Coach Coffee loved the coaching position that he proudly filled over 47 years. His love for the AAU girls teams he coached and mentored continued for more than half of his life. He poured his heart and soul into this and never grew tired of watching his players achieve confidence and discipline that would follow them after they left the basketball court. Coaching was never just a hobby to him — it was part of who he was. His favorite saying, “It’s a lifestyle,” perfectly captured the way he approached basketball and life itself: with commitment, heart and purpose.

Beyond the court, Coach Coffee was known for his strong work ethic, steady presence and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

He will be remembered for his wisdom, storytelling, dedication and the countless lives he impacted both on and off the basketball court.

He is survived by his loving sisters, Ida, Anna, Patti and Deb, along with nieces and nephews, extended family members, former players and all those fortunate enough to know him.

Though he may be gone from our sight, his lessons, spirit, and love for the game will live on. After all, as he always said, “It’s a lifestyle.”

Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Friday, June 5th at Rogers Funeral Home, 324 W. Main St., New Lebanon, Ohio 45345. Funeral service will be 10:00am Saturday, June 6th also at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Trissel Cemetery. www.RogersFuneralHomes.com