The Des Plaines, Illinois, community is mourning the loss of Gabriel David Corey, a longtime educator, football coach, mentor, and devoted family man who passed away unexpectedly on October 31, 2026, at the age of 68.
According to his obituary published by Muzyka & Son Funeral Home on November 2, Gabriel leaves behind a legacy that extends across generations of students, athletes, colleagues, friends, and family members. Throughout his life, he was recognized for his dedication to education, leadership, faith, and the development of young people.
Born on June 28, 1958, in Terre Haute, Indiana, Gabriel was the son of Alexander and Adelle Corey. He graduated from Terre Haute South Vigo High School in 1976, where he was a four year varsity football starter, team captain, and All State and All County selection.
He continued his football career at Indiana State University, graduating in 1980 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education. He later earned a master’s degree in Education and Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University.
Gabriel Corey’s Career as an Educator and Football Coach
Gabriel dedicated more than four decades of his professional life to teaching, coaching, and supporting students. His career began in 1981 at Terre Haute North Vigo High School, where he worked as a teacher and assistant football coach.
In 1985, he became head football coach at Southmont Senior High School in Crawfordsville, Indiana. A year later, he accepted a position at Paris High School in Illinois, taking responsibility for a football program that had experienced 32 consecutive losses.
He helped the team end that difficult streak during his first season, eventually guiding the program to a playoff appearance in 1990.
Gabriel later joined Maine East High School in Park Ridge in 1994. After returning as head coach in 2009, he helped turn around the struggling football program again. His first victory during that return earned him recognition as the Chicago Bears Coach of the Week.
He retired from Maine East in 2015 but continued working with students at Prospect High School before joining John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights in 2023 as Campus Security Lead. He remained in that position until his passing.
Family, Faith and Funeral Services
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gabriel’s greatest pride was his family. He married Lisa Ann Corey on March 5, 1995, and together they raised seven children: Gabriel, Alexander, George, Woodrow, Alecia, Samuel, and Louis. He was also a grandfather to Alexander and Bennett Corey.
His Orthodox Christian faith played an important role in his life. He served his church community through the Parish Council and as Director of Sunday School.
Gabriel’s family, friends, and former colleagues have shared heartfelt condolences, remembering him as a caring friend, respected coach, and influential mentor.
Two services will be held in his honor. Visitation is scheduled for November 5, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at All Saints Antiochian Orthodox Church in Chicago, followed by a service.
A second gathering will take place November 7 at St. George Orthodox Church in Terre Haute, Indiana, beginning with visitation at 10 a.m. A service and graveside burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery Association.
Arrangements are being handled by Muzyka & Son Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to All Saints Antiochian Orthodox Church or St. George Orthodox Church.
Gabriel Corey will be remembered for the lives he influenced, the family he cherished, and the lasting example he set through decades of service to others.
