The Toccoa, Georgia, community is mourning the death of Julio Cesar “Coach” Vena, a longtime educator, Bible professor, and soccer coach who dedicated much of his life to serving students and young athletes. Vena died on September 30, 2026, in Cleveland, Georgia, at the age of 83.
According to his published obituary, Vena was born on December 20, 1942, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He eventually made his home in Toccoa, where he became closely connected with Toccoa Falls College and the surrounding community.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Soccer
Vena’s career at Toccoa Falls College began in 1971 after he married Catherine. The couple moved to Toccoa that same year when Vena accepted a position as a Professor of Bible and Theology.
During his years at the college, Vena became known for his work in education as well as his passion for soccer. He helped develop a successful varsity soccer program at Toccoa Falls College and played an important role in promoting youth soccer in Stephens County.
Although soccer was an important part of his life, his family and faith remembered him for a deeper purpose. His obituary noted that his true passion was sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. As a New Testament professor, he taught many students about the Bible, faith, and Christian living.
Vena pursued his education at Instituto Biblico Rio de la Plata in Lomas de Zamora, Argentina, Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri, and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois.
Family Remembers Julio Vena
Vena is survived by his wife, Catherine Jacobson Vena, his son Christopher and daughter Jessica, along with several grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Jose, as well as nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Felipe Vena and Blanca Espinosa, who were from Buenos Aires, Argentina.
A Celebration of Life for Julio Cesar Vena is scheduled for November 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. at First Alliance Church, located at 220 Alliance Drive in Eastanollee, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to Toccoa Falls College, an institution that held special meaning for Vena and reflected much of his life’s work.
The news of Vena’s passing marks the loss of a longtime educator and coach whose influence extended beyond the classroom and soccer field. Through his teaching, coaching, faith, and dedication to young people, he left a lasting impression on generations of students and members of the Toccoa community.
