The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Lauryn Bary, a respected coach, mentor, and accomplished professional.
Known affectionately as “Coach Lauryn,” she passed away recently, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in both her professional career and the lives of the young athletes she inspired.
Lauryn’s impact extended far beyond the field. She played a transformative role in shaping the athletic and personal journeys of countless young people.
Parents, teammates, and former players remember her not only for her coaching skills but also for her deep care and belief in her players.
One parent, Daniel Clewley, shared how Lauryn’s encouragement changed his daughter Emily’s life.
Lauryn introduced Emily to softball with a simple invitation to try out, which eventually led Emily to become a Division II college athlete.
“You always felt, with Lauryn, that she was not only trying to get the most out of your daughter as an athlete but also the most out of her as a person,” Clewley said in an emotional tribute.
Outside of coaching, Lauryn built a long and successful career in the legal and financial services sector.
She most recently served as a Senior Account & Relationship Manager at Wolters Kluwer, where she worked remotely from Annapolis, Maryland.
Over the span of more than two decades, she held several key positions within the organization, excelling in strategic account management and client relations.
Her colleagues remember her as sharp, kind, and deeply committed to her work.
“She was a special person and will be missed. She was so sharp,” shared Sandra Rowe, a former colleague.
Many described Lauryn as a team player who would go out of her way to support others, both professionally and personally.
Lauryn’s love for sports began early in her life. A graduate of Severna Park High School, she went on to study History and Journalism at LIU Brooklyn.
There, she became a dual-sport NCAA Division I athlete, playing both soccer and softball.
Her passion for the game and commitment to teamwork naturally evolved into a lifelong dedication to coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Lauryn leaves behind her husband, Jon, and their two daughters, Quinlyn and McKenna.
Those who knew her describe her as not only an extraordinary coach but also a devoted mother, wife, colleague, and friend.
“Lauryn was a beautiful mom, coach, mentor, and friend. She was always supportive, kind, and would do anything for those she loved,” wrote Jennifer Debowski Watanabe, reflecting the deep sorrow felt by many.
The news of Coach Lauryn Bary’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and love from across the community.
While Lauryn’s passing has left a void that cannot be filled, her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched.
