Bill Burgess Obituary

The world of college football mourns the loss of a coaching icon with the passing of Bill Burgess, the former head coach of Jacksonville State University’s football team.

Burgess, aged 82, left an indelible mark on the sport, and his death on December 13, 2023, has left a void that resonates throughout the community.

The sad news was confirmed by his son, Rick Burgess, a prominent radio personality known for “The Rick and Bubba Show.” Rick shared the heart-wrenching announcement on Wednesday morning, revealing that his father had passed away at 1:11 a.m.

Bill Burgess’s coaching career spanned decades, and his impact was particularly felt during his 12-season tenure with the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks from 1985 to 1996. A pinnacle moment in his coaching journey came in 1992 when Burgess led the team to clinch the NCAA Division Two National Championship.

In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to Jacksonville State University, the football stadium was renamed Burgess-Snow Field in 2010. This symbolic gesture stands as a lasting tribute to the man who played a pivotal role in shaping the university’s football legacy.

Moreover, Burgess earned well-deserved spots in prestigious halls of fame, including the Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame, the JSU Hall of Fame, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, and the Gulf South Conference Hall of Fame.

As the college football community reflects on the life and accomplishments of Bill Burgess, the void left by his passing is filled with gratitude for the memories he created and the athletes he inspired. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and learning from this coaching giant.