Former and late Blacksburg Indians Head Coach Ken Stickley passed away, leaving the community and his family in grief.
Although no official obituary or death notice has been released, numerous community posts and his sundent have memorialized him with gratitude and respect.
Blacksburg High School Former Coach Ken Stickley Dies, Leaving a Lasting Legacy
While not much personal information about Coach Ken Stickley has been released in the media, his death on October 12 was shared by a few of his students via their Facebook posts.
Ken is survived by his wife, Margaret, who appears to be the sole owner of their home at 3339 Darby Road, Keswick, VA 22947.
During the early 1960s, Stickley served as head coach of the Blacksburg High School “Indians” football team.
Under his direction, the program earned recognition, and local alumni frequently credit him with securing 2 New River District championships during his tenure.
Later, after his coaching career, Ken served as the principal of Christiansburg Primary School.
Not just a football coach, Ken was also a teacher who taught multiple subjects, including history.
While Ken led a private life and did not often appear in high-profile media, he was a local hero.
New River District throwback : 1962 Blacksburg Indians Coached by my principal at Christiansburg Primary School Ken Stickley. QB Buddy Martin became a Basketball coaching legend at Radford and Fred Zirkle played 4 years at Duke and was drafted by the NY Jets in 1969 pic.twitter.com/VHyJXSYXKK
— David Mabry (@david_mabry) November 29, 2023
Those who knew Ken are always grateful for the lessons they learned from him. After his passing, many expressed their condolences. One admirer commented on Facebook:
Sad to hear. I had him for history. Good man.
Similarly, another former student shared:
Mr. Stickley was one of our Principal’s in Christiansburg. Prayers for his family during this sad time.
Although official obituary outlets have not yet captured Ken’s death, his memory is cherished by his admirers and his surviving wife.
Rest in Peace, Coach!
