Ohio Volleyball and Basketball Coach Pat Keney’s Death Leaves the Jackson‑Milton Athletic Department Heartbroken

Students said he was a tough coach, but the best one they ever had in their lives.

This article was last updated by on

Jackson-Milton High School volleyball and basketball coach Pat Keney passed away, leaving behind a lasting coaching legacy.

Pat Keney coached several sports, but primarily volleyball and basketball for girls across the Jackson-Milton school district.

He was a part of the Blue Jay athletic community, where he not only taught young athletes but also helped them to believe in themselves.

Before Pat Keney’s death, he finished his season with a volleyball district title this past fall, marking a significant victory.

Also Read: Meigs High School Basketball Player Brentten Young’s Death Leaves the Pomeroy Fire Department and Community Heartbroken

North Jackson, Ohio, Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Coach Pat Keney!

Coach Pat Kenwy died on January 12, 2026, in his home surrounded by his family.

Following his passing, his students remembered his tough teaching style and the rules he enforced to discipline students, which they now appreciate.

While the Keney family processes their loss and has stayed out of the media, his former students and coworkers have expressed their support and condolences through social media.

One of his students shared a heartfelt post on Facebook, sharing her memories with the coach, writing:

Pat was the best coach I could have wished for growing up. He was such an amazing person that I am so blessed to have known. He pushed us to be the best versions of ourselves and gave us tough love on the court because he knew what we could accomplish at such a young age. He made basketball fun and really treated us all like family. He would go above and beyond for everyone he coached on and off the court. I have so many memories that I will cherish. It was always bigger than basketball. I hope he knows how thankful we all are for all the life lessons he taught us. Thoughts and prayers to coach Keney’s family! We love you all so much! Pat I hope you are looking down and seeing how much you meant to everyone and what an impact you had on all of our lives. You will be missed #WWPKD

Not just his students, but also the school community seems to be mourning through this difficult phase after losing their skilled coach.

As of now, the family has not spoken publicly about Pat’s death, which was confirmed by the Jackson‑Milton Athletics Department.

Therefore, after taking some time to process their grief, the family may soon announce the funeral service and visitation details.

While the community mourns the loss, we would also like to express our heartfelt condolences to Pat Keney’s friends and family.

Rest in Peace, Coach!

Also Read: Genoa City, Wisconsin resident and Badger High School JV wrestling coach Luke Braden dies after courageous battle with colon and liver cancer

Nishan
Nishan
Nishan Dahal writes sports with a human touch, covering breaking news, athlete lives, and the stories that stats can't tell. Nishan believes every athlete has a story worth telling. With the goal of bringing those stories to life with honesty, heart, and a touch of curiosity, he shares his insights through PlayerBio.

Related articles

Comments

Share article

Louis A. “Lou” DiSorbo Obituary: Retired Coach and Educator Dies at 88

Louis A. “Lou” DiSorbo, a respected former athlete, longtime educator, and beloved coach from Allegany, New York, has died at the age of 88....

John Nicks Obituary: Legendary Figure Skating Coach Dies at 97

John Nicks, the celebrated British figure skater and influential coach who helped shape generations of Olympic athletes, has died at the age of 97....

William Allison “W.A.” Cline III Obituary: Beloved East Rowan Football Coach Dies at 86

William Allison “W.A.” Cline III, a respected North Carolina educator, longtime football coach, and influential community leader, passed away peacefully at his home on...

Neil Allen Hayes Obituary: Lawrence, Kansas Teacher and Coach Dies at 82

Neil Allen Hayes, a longtime Kansas teacher and coach who influenced generations of students and athletes throughout his more than 40-year career, has died...

Lamesa, TX, Mourns Beloved Coach Derrell Wayne Froman at 87

Derrell Wayne "Coach" Froman, a longtime Lamesa educator, baseball coach and farmer, has died at the age of 87. Froman passed away on October...