PROVO, Utah, Dec. 31, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — A public memorial service for former Brigham Young University coach LaVell Edwards will be held on Friday, the university has announced.
Edwards died on Dec. 29 at age 86. His death followed a Christmas Eve fall that broke his hip, according to his wife, Patti Edwards.
The public memorial will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at the Utah Valley Convention Center, 220 W. Center St., Provo. A funeral planned for Saturday will be private.
Edwards assumed the top job as the Cougars’ head coach in 1972 and went on to post an overall record of 257 wins, 101 losses and 3 ties.
Among the many to release statements on the legendary coach’s passing was Gov. Gary R. Herbert:
“Jeanette and I were saddened to learn of Coach LaVell Edwards’ passing this morning. The Edwards’ have been good friends to my family for many years. Of course LaVell will be remembered and revered as one of the great coaches of all time for the way he transformed BYU Football into a national powerhouse. But just as important is how he worked to transform young men into successful and better human beings. He truly cared about his players both on and off the field.
“A big part of what made him such a legend was his example of excellence in sportsmanship — he always showed the utmost respect for his opponents. LaVell was not just a great coach, but more importantly, LaVell Edwards was a good man and a decent human being. He and his wife Patti have always been great examples to me about how to conduct one’s life.
“LaVell was both a legend, and a friend. Our prayers are with Patti and entire Edwards family at this time. LaVell, you will be dearly missed.”
