Jackie Harrelson’s death reminds Louisiana of his lasting impact on sports and education.
Cleveland “Jackie” Harrelson, Jr., a beloved coach, teacher, and family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Lafayette, Louisiana, on August 25, 2025.
He was 68 years old and surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
Family, friends, and former students remember Jackie as a man of intelligence, humor, and deep commitment to those around him. His funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Scott.
The family will host a visitation on Wednesday, August 27, from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Martin & Castille Funeral Home in Scott, with a Rosary service scheduled for 7:00 PM.
Visitation will continue on Thursday morning before the service. Jackie will be laid to rest at St. Lawrence Cemetery in Mowata, Louisiana.
Born on October 18, 1956, in Alexander City, Alabama, Jackie Harrelson graduated from Benjamin Russell High School in 1975 before earning a degree in Marketing from Auburn University in 1980.
His passion for sports and teaching shaped his career path early on.
Jackie began coaching as a graduate assistant at the University of Southwestern Louisiana from 1981 to 1983.
He quickly made his mark at Teurlings Catholic High School, where he led the baseball team to a state championship in 1985.
His leadership then took him to Rayne High School in 1986 as head football coach, and just two years later, to Lafayette High School, where he dedicated over two decades to coaching and teaching until his retirement in 2014.
Students and athletes remember Jackie as a mentor who valued discipline, perseverance, and personal growth.
His impact extended beyond the field, shaping the lives of countless young people who continue to carry his lessons forward.
Jackie’s devotion to family stood at the heart of his life. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Gretchen Hensgens Harrelson, his daughter Meghan, and his son Cleveland “Jack” Harrelson III, along with Jack’s wife Riley.
Jackie also leaves behind two cherished grandchildren, Jack Thomas and Mary-Laine, as well as his brothers Edwin “Mike” Griffin, Gary Harrelson, and Jeff Harrelson, their spouses, and a host of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland Harrelson, Sr., and Dorothy Allen Harrelson, along with other beloved family members who welcomed him home.
Pallbearers for his service include Bobby Green, Jeff Harrelson, Truett Harrelson, Gary Harrelson, Mark Billeaud, and Brian Butcher.
Honorary pallbearers will include Jack Thomas Harrelson, Mike Griffin, Mike Doherty, and Dan McDonald.
The family expressed gratitude to Hospice of Acadiana and Right at Home for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jackie’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Hospice of Acadiana.
