A tragic car accident has taken the life of Jesus Carlos Villa, a 38-year-old father of three and pillar of the Royal City community.
Known affectionately as Carlos, Villa was killed in a single-vehicle rollover crash on July 12 while on his way home from work.
The accident occurred along West Cunningham Road near Othello, and according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Carlos was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene.
As news of his sudden passing spread, an outpouring of love and support emerged from friends, family, students, and the wider community.
A GoFundMe campaign titled “Support for the Villa Family” has already raised over $31,000 of its $45,000 goal to assist his wife, Berenice Villa, and their three daughters in the wake of this devastating loss.
The fundraiser states,
“This unexpected accident has left their family devastated. Carlos was a devoted husband and father. This fundraiser aims to ease some of the immediate burdens that come with such a sudden and heartbreaking tragedy.”
Carlos Villa Was A Dedicated Coach
Carlos Villa was a beloved coach, mentor, and role model within the Royal City community.
Known for his passion and dedication, Villa helped shape the lives of young athletes as a wrestling coach, earning deep respect.
The Lady Spartans Wrestling team issued a heartfelt tribute, stating:
“Coach Villa wasn’t simply a coach, he was a mentor, a motivator, and a steadfast supporter. He believed in discipline, strength, and heart, and taught that each move on the mat mirrors how we live our lives off it. His legacy lives on in every takedown, every cheer, and every moment of perseverance in our wrestling community. The lessons he shared courage, discipline, and humility are engraved in all of us.”
The Royal School District echoed these sentiments, writing:
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Coach Carlos Villa. He was a dedicated wrestling coach and a beloved member of our community. His wife, Berenice, is also a valued member of our staff. Please keep their family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Carlos Villa Is Remembered For His Legacy
Carlos is being remembered not just for his leadership on the wrestling mat, but for his larger-than-life presence and his deep love for his family and students.
A friend shared,
“He would do anything for anyone, and now we can help his family the same way he would have helped any of ours.”
Though his voice may now be silent, Coach Villa’s spirit echoes in every athlete he mentored and every community member whose life he touched.
To support the Villa family during this unimaginable time, donations can be made through GoFundMe.
In a moment that has shaken the Royal City community to its core, people are rallying behind the Villa family, just as Carlos always did for others.
Rest in peace, Coach Villa!
