Jamie Lininger, the New Riegel Athletic Director and former softball coach, passed away at 54 on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Mercy Health-Tiffin Hospital.
He was a great coach, an excellent athletic director, a loving father, a husband, and a wonderful friend. His passing is a huge loss, and the whole community mourns the loss.
Jamie A. “Jamie” Lininger was a towering figure in Ohio high school athletics, leaving an indelible mark on fast-pitch softball.
His outstanding career was honored in 2021 with induction into the Ohio High School Fast Pitch Softball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of his dedication and success.
Over 17 remarkable seasons at New Riegel, he amassed 331 career wins, including a single-season record of 29 victories. Under his leadership, his team reached the state semifinals thrice, inspiring countless players.
Beyond the wins and accolades, his legacy lies in his profound impact on his players, the community, and the sport.
His passion, mentorship, and unwavering commitment will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue to resonate for generations.
The Northern 10 extends condolences to the family, friends, his former players and all those in the New Riegel community and beyond who were fortunate to know Jamie Lininger. He had a great commitment to high school sports and was important to the N10’s expansion. He will be missed.
Northern 10 Athletic Conference
Jamie Lininger’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
The New Riegel community and local sports world mourn the loss of Jamie Lininger, longtime Athletic Director and former softball coach.
He was a leader who left a legacy of passion for athletics and unwavering commitment to his students, athletes, and loved ones.
Jamie grew up with a deep love for sports, which he carried throughout his life.
He became a fixture in New Riegel schools, first making his mark as a highly successful softball coach, guiding young athletes with wisdom, encouragement, and a competitive spirit.
His leadership extended beyond the field when he became the athletic director, where he worked tirelessly to support student-athletes.
Jamie was known for his kindness, humor, and dedication to his community. Colleagues, players, and parents admired his ability to inspire excellence while fostering a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship.
His impact reached far beyond wins and losses. He shaped lives through his mentorship and genuine care for others.
Above all, Jamie cherished his family. His wife, Charlotte Kirian Lininger, and children, who were the pride of his life, survived him.
His ability to coach his daughters, Kayleigh and Jacquelyn, was a unique aspect of his career.
I feel like people think it’s easier being the coach’s daughter, but the coaching doesn’t stop when you leave the field. We laugh about it, but when he mumbles, as his daughter I know what he’s saying, but it’s also great like moments after the game after a big win, we’re both crying.
Kayleigh Lininger
It’s unbelievable because from the moment I put a softball in my hand, I only wanted to make him proud. Just knowing going to state with it being his last year of coaching, I’m so glad it was ended like this and with me as the pitcher.
His devotion to them was evident in every aspect of his life, whether cheering from the sidelines at their games or sharing quiet moments at home.
Jamie and Charlotte married on December 30, 1995. His wife graduated from Ohio State University in 1995 and serves as an inclusion specialist at Tiffin City Schools.
My life would be boring without this guy. He picks the best adventures and experiences for our family. I’m thankful for him everyday.
Charlotte Kirian Lininger
Jamie Lininger’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of many, but his legacy of leadership, love, and laughter will live on in the countless lives he touched.
The Lininger family announced a public visitation at Hoening & Son Funeral Home—Fostoria on April 10 and All Saints Catholic Church on April 11.
Likewise, students and their parents are invited to visit All Saints Catholic Church on April 11 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Instead of flowers, donations are requested to honor his memory.
He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Rest In Peace, Coach Jamie Lininger.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jamie Lininger stepped down as the school’s softball coach after 17 seasons in 2022.
- His daughters trained under him and played for the New Riegel.
