Alabama Football Mourns the Loss of Beloved Bus Driver, John “Coach” Harris…
*June 15, 2024*
The Alabama Crimson Tide football community is in mourning following the passing of John “Coach” Harris, the beloved bus driver who served the team for over three decades. Harris, 72, passed away peacefully in his sleep, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, warmth, and unwavering support for the team he loved so dearly.
Harris, affectionately known as “Coach” by players and staff, was much more than a bus driver. To many within the Alabama football program, he was a mentor, a friend, and a comforting presence through the highs and lows of college football. His passing marks the end of an era, and the impact he made on countless lives will be remembered for years to come.
Born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Harris developed an early passion for football. Though he never played the sport at a professional level, his love for the game was evident in his lifelong commitment to the Crimson Tide. Starting his career as a bus driver for the university in the late 1980s, Harris quickly became a fixture within the athletic department, particularly within the football program.
Over the years, Harris’s role extended far beyond transporting the team to and from games. He was known for his motivational speeches, his infectious positivity, and his ability to forge deep connections with players and coaches alike. “Coach Harris was more than a bus driver; he was a part of the team,” said Nick Saban, head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide. “His dedication and love for this program were unparalleled. He will be deeply missed.”
Harris’s bus was often a place of camaraderie and comfort for the players. Known for his open-door policy, Harris welcomed players who needed advice, a laugh, or simply a quiet place to reflect. Many former players recall his kind words and supportive nature during their most challenging times. “He was always there for us, whether we won or lost,” said Tua Tagovailoa, former Alabama quarterback and current NFL star. “Coach Harris believed in us and always reminded us of our potential.”
The Alabama football team has announced plans to honor Harris’s memory throughout the upcoming season. Tributes are expected to include a commemorative patch on the team’s uniforms, a moment of silence before their first home game, and a dedicated seat on the team bus in his honor. Additionally, the university plans to establish a scholarship fund in his name, aimed at supporting students from Tuscaloosa who demonstrate the same dedication and passion that Harris embodied.
News of Harris’s passing has resonated deeply within the Alabama community and beyond. Tributes have poured in from current and former players, coaches, and fans, all sharing fond memories and expressing their condolences. Social media platforms have been flooded with heartfelt messages, photos, and anecdotes celebrating Harris’s life and legacy.
“John Harris was a true Crimson Tide legend,” said Greg Byrne, Alabama’s athletic director. “His contributions to this program went far beyond his job description. He was a mentor, a confidant, and a beloved figure in our community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”
Harris is survived by his wife, Mary, their three children, and seven grandchildren. In a statement, his family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and shared how much the Alabama football community meant to him. “John loved the Crimson Tide with all his heart,” the statement read. “He was proud to be a part of such a special program and cherished the relationships he built over the years. We are comforted by the knowledge that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.”
As the Alabama Crimson Tide prepares for the upcoming season, the memory of John “Coach” Harris will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration and strength. His unwavering support and dedication to the team serve as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on a community. Harris’s legacy will continue to resonate, reminding all who knew him of the true meaning of loyalty, kindness, and the power of a supportive spirit.
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