The Exeter-Milligan community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Sara Pella, a beloved teacher, basketball coach, and mother of two, who passed away at the age of 34 after a courageous battle with Stage 4 colon cancer.
Sara, who continued to teach and coach during her illness, leaves behind her husband Jordan Pella, a Nebraska State Patrol officer, and their two young children, ages 5 and 2.
Good luck in the election today @kaylageiger00 I’ve got my button on to support! #emwolves pic.twitter.com/ex05ZwrIb2
— Sara Pella (@spella30) December 12, 2018
Sara Pella Was An Inspiring Basketball Coach And Educator
Sara Pella was more than an educator.
She was a pillar of her community, a coach who inspired countless student-athletes, and a tireless advocate for Exeter’s youth.
She taught middle school language arts at Exeter-Milligan Public Schools and served as the head coach of the EMF girls’ basketball team.
Despite her cancer diagnosis in August 2024, Sara remained committed to her students and athletes, balancing her health battles with her passion for teaching and coaching.
Seeing another team wear the tshirt during warmups that is supporting my fight against cancer definitely pulls at my heart! I can't thank them enough for the hugs and prayers! Thank you Southern! Also, thank you to all the other teams who have worn blue ribbons or sent cards! 🩵 pic.twitter.com/EKJZG5IUaO
— Sara Pella (@spella30) January 10, 2025
One family friend wrote in tribute,
“Sara was a vibrant woman. She was a great wife and mother as well as a teacher, coach, and very active community member. She had a zest for life that words can’t describe.”
Via Facebook
Tributes Have Poured In For The Beautiful Soul
The outpouring of love and remembrance for Sara Pella has flooded social media and community spaces following her passing.
One tribute read,
“To know Sara was to love Sara. She touched more lives than anyone could imagine with an attitude and smile that could light up a room. She leaves behind so many, including two littles. I want to create a memory book for them to cherish forever—seeing how many lives their mom touched.”
Via Facebook
Another heartfelt message read:
“That big smile will be forever in people’s minds. We are thinking about the family, friends, students, and the community that Sara impacted.”
Via Facebook
Many are calling on those who knew her to share photos and stories, to preserve her legacy for her children and future generations.
Sara and her husband Jordan were married for five years.
Jordan not only serves as a Nebraska State Trooper, but also helps coach EMF football.
Together, the couple was deeply involved in the Exeter-Milligan school district and community life.
Sara also served as Exeter Community Club President, pool manager, swimming instructor, and a passionate volunteer.
A Celebration of Life for Sara Pella will be held on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Exeter-Milligan High School Gymnasium.
A meal and time for fellowship will follow at the Exeter American Legion.
Community members, students, and friends are invited to attend and share in remembering the legacy of a woman who made an immeasurable impact in her short but powerful life.
The Pella Family Can Be Supported Through GoFundMe
As tributes continue, many are calling for donations and support for the Pella family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Friends have encouraged the public to contribute in any way possible, whether financially, emotionally, or by simply sharing memories of Sara that her children can cherish.
We are ready for a BOBCAT win!!! Good luck tonight! #emfbobcats pic.twitter.com/zTxAYwBn9u
— Sara Pella (@spella30) October 21, 2021
A friend wrote best,
“Sympathies to the Pella family and all the extended families and friends who fought alongside Sara until the end. For my friends who may not know her, but love to support worthy causes—I urge you to please donate to the Pella family.”
Via Facebook
