Michael Jerkins Sr. Obituary, Death: Beloved Rehobeth High School Varsity Football Coach and New Brockton, Alabama Community Pillar Passes Away, Leaving a Lasting Legacy of Dedication, Mentorship, and Impact on Youth Sports and Education”
Michael Jerkins Sr., whose name is synonymous with dedication, mentorship, and leadership in New Brockton, Alabama, has passed away, leaving a community in mourning. As the varsity football coach at Rehobeth High School in Dothan, Alabama, Jerkins’s impact on the lives of his players, students, colleagues, and community members extended far beyond the field. His death marks the end of an era, a loss felt not only in the sports community but in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known him. His profound influence on the culture of youth sports and the development of young men and women in Alabama has left an indelible mark, his life a testament to the power of commitment and compassion.
Jerkins’s career as a football coach was marked by numerous triumphs on the field, and his influence extended far beyond any scoreboard or championship win. Known for his no-nonsense approach to coaching, coupled with an unwavering dedication to each player’s individual growth, Jerkins spent countless hours developing not only athletes but responsible, driven young adults. His guidance helped many of his players navigate not only the sport but the challenges of growing up, emphasizing values such as teamwork, perseverance, integrity, and resilience. To those who played under him, he was more than a coach; he was a mentor, a role model, and a father figure who saw the potential in everyone and worked tirelessly to draw it out.
For the residents of New Brockton, Michael Jerkins Sr. was a larger-than-life figure, someone who exemplified community spirit. He was a familiar face at local events, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement. His contributions extended well beyond the football field; they were felt in schools, churches, and youth programs across the area. Jerkins believed in the potential of young people and was committed to creating opportunities that would help them realize their goals. Whether it was through hosting summer camps, organizing fundraisers, or simply being present at community functions, he left an indelible mark on the lives of many, inspiring others to contribute in their own way.
His players fondly remember him for his passionate pep talks, which were more than just speeches aimed at motivating them to win a game. They were heartfelt messages about life, personal growth, and the importance of seizing every opportunity. Former students recall that Jerkins would often stay late after practice to work with those who needed extra help, whether it was with their football skills or their academics. He was a coach who truly cared, one who went above and beyond to ensure that each of his players felt valued and understood. Many of his former players would later say that the lessons they learned from him went far beyond the sport; they were lessons that shaped their character, guided their decisions, and stayed with them throughout their lives.
In addition to his coaching career, Jerkins was a passionate advocate for youth development. His involvement with local initiatives, such as after-school programs and community service projects, highlighted his commitment to providing a supportive and enriching environment for the youth in New Brockton. He believed that sports could be a powerful tool for teaching life skills and aimed to instill in his players a sense of responsibility, discipline, and pride in their achievements. His approach to coaching extended beyond winning games; he viewed it as a means of molding young individuals into leaders. To this end, he frequently collaborated with local educators and community leaders to create programs that promoted healthy lifestyles and personal development.
Jerkins’s devotion to his players and community was evident in the way he interacted with them on a daily basis. Whether he was pushing his players to give their best during practice, encouraging them to pursue their academic aspirations, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need, he was always fully present. He took a holistic approach to coaching, understanding that the young men and women he mentored were not just athletes but individuals with their own struggles, dreams, and fears. It was not uncommon for him to attend his players’ academic award ceremonies, family events, or even church services, showing his support in every aspect of their lives.
His passing has left a void that will be felt for years to come, but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. Those who had the privilege of knowing Michael Jerkins Sr. will remember him not only as a great coach but as a man of integrity who was committed to uplifting those around him. The outpouring of grief and tributes following the announcement of his death speaks to the profound impact he had on his community. Former players, colleagues, friends, and even rival coaches have shared memories and stories that paint a picture of a man whose life was dedicated to service and the betterment of others. His influence reached far beyond the sidelines, extending into the lives of those who would go on to become doctors, teachers, coaches, and leaders in their own right.
The Rehobeth High School community is particularly heartbroken by the loss of a figure who had become an integral part of the school’s identity. For years, Jerkins’s presence at the helm of the varsity football team brought a sense of pride and hope to the students and staff. His dedication to the school’s athletic program was evident in the long hours he spent preparing for games, training his players, and mentoring fellow coaches. His legacy will be carried on by those who continue to work in the athletic department, inspired by the standard he set and the example he provided. His commitment to building a cohesive, supportive, and competitive program is one that will be remembered for years to come.
Outside of his professional life, Jerkins was known as a loving family man. He often spoke about his own children with the same pride and dedication that he showed to his players, and his family was as much a part of the community as he was. He cherished his role as a father and grandfather, finding joy in spending time with his loved ones. His family, while mourning the loss of a husband, father, and grandfather, can take comfort in the fact that he left behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and commitment that has touched so many. His life serves as a reminder of the importance of community, the power of sports to change lives, and the enduring impact one person can have on the lives of others.
As people gather to remember Michael Jerkins Sr., his life and legacy are celebrated in the many stories shared by those who knew him best. From players who recall his encouragement during tough times, to community members who appreciated his involvement in local initiatives, his impact is evident in the lives he helped shape. His dedication to his players was perhaps best summed up by a former student who said, “Coach Jerkins taught me more than how to play football. He taught me how to be a man.” It is a sentiment that resonates with many who knew him and one that will endure as part of his legacy.
The funeral services for Michael Jerkins Sr. will likely see an outpouring of support from across New Brockton, Dothan, and beyond, as those whose lives he touched come together to honor his memory. In death, as in life, Jerkins brings people together, reminding all of the importance of community, commitment, and compassion. His story serves as a powerful reminder that while life may be fleeting, the impact we have on others endures, creating a legacy that lasts long after we are gone.
Michael Jerkins Sr.’s life was characterized by a relentless dedication to making a difference, and while his passing marks the end of his earthly journey, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the community he helped to build. As his family, friends, and former players continue to grieve, they can find solace in knowing that his legacy is a lasting one, defined by the strength of character, the depth of compassion, and the enduring love he showed to all who crossed his path.
