Wadesboro, North Carolina, is mourning the unexpected passing of Coach Toby McLaurin, a dedicated educator, father, and community pillar, who died at his parents’ home on October 5, 2025, at the age of 47.
Known for his passion for students and sports, Toby Matthew McLaurin left behind a legacy of kindness and inspiration that touched countless lives in the Anson County area and beyond.
Born in 1978 to parents Franki and Don McLaurin, Toby grew up alongside his brother Josh in North Carolina.
He attended Anson Senior High School, where he likely first developed his love for coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Toby continued his education at UNC Pembroke and the University of Phoenix, building the foundation for a career in education that spanned multiple districts.
Throughout his professional life, Toby worked at several public school systems, including Union County Public Schools, Anson County Schools, and Stanly County Schools.
By 2023, he had joined Montgomery County Schools as Assistant Principal at Montgomery Central High School, where he served until his passing.
Earlier in his career, around 2015, Toby even stepped up as principal at a local school, earning praise for his leadership and support of teachers.
His roles often extended beyond the classroom, as he coached sports and acted as a father figure to many students, especially those from single-parent homes.
Montgomery County Schools shared a heartfelt announcement about Toby’s death, describing him as a “very dear friend, brother, and colleague” who embodied the spirit of their district.
The district noted his deep love for students at Montgomery Central and the community, inviting people to share photos, videos, and memories ahead of Homecoming week to honor him.
“His dedication and passion made an incredible impact on so many lives,” the statement read, emphasizing how Toby’s spirit would forever remain part of the Timberwolf family.
Toby is survived by his daughter, Leah, his parents, his brother, Josh, and many other loved ones. Leah posted an emotional tribute online, sharing a photo of her father and writing,
“If my heart could have beaten for yours, you’d still be here today. I’ll miss and love you for all of my days. I pray to have the strength that you had. I love you my angel.”
Via Facebook
Her words captured the profound personal loss felt by his immediate family.
The Community has Expressed Sympathy and Shared Stories About Toby’s Lasting Impact
Lanequa Hamilton recalled how Toby, as her teacher and coach at Wadesboro Elementary School, taught her to shoot a basketball and boosted her self-esteem during a tough transition.
“He was the type of teacher/coach to actually get to know his kids and understand them,” she wrote, noting how he filled a void for many students, including girls interested in sports.
Ke Smith lamented the loss, calling Toby “the best coach ever” and highlighting that Anson County had recently lost several key figures from the school system.
So sad man. He was the best coach ever! This is sad. Anson done lost so many people within the last week who actually meant a lot to the school system and took their time with students! Life is so fragile
Via Facebook
Former student and athlete Cameron Andrew Price remembered Toby as his coach from 2005 to 2009, praising his leadership, kindness, and compassion.
“His lasting words to me, ‘I’m proud of you and you’ve come a long way, brother,‘ will forever resonate with me,” Cameron shared, recalling playful moments during JV games that tested Toby’s patience but never dimmed his dedication.
These tributes honor a man who went above and beyond, mentoring not only in sports but also in life.
Funeral services for Coach Toby McLaurin are scheduled for 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at First Baptist Church on Lee Avenue in Wadesboro, followed by interment at Anson Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Leavitt Funeral Home, and at other times at the home of his parents.
As Wadesboro comes together to celebrate Toby’s life, his memory as a cherished coach and friend will continue to inspire the community he loved so dearly.
