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Joe Pierro, a beloved high school and basketball coach in Ohio, has died after being struck by lightning. He was 60.
Pierro was killed while mowing the lawn at his home in Steubenville, Ohio on Friday, September 4, according to local reports.
The incident happened just three weeks after Pierro retired following 30-plus years as a coach and teacher at Steubenville High School.
“The Big Red family suffered a terrible loss with the sudden passing of longtime teacher, coach, colleague and friend, Joe Pierro,” the school said in a statement via Facebook. “Joe dedicated much of his life to helping young people learn, grow, compete, and believe in themselves. His impact reached far beyond the classroom and playing field — through the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the relationships he built.”
The statement continued, “We extend our deepest condolences to Joe’s family, friends, colleagues, former students and players during this incredibly difficult time. The legacy of Coach Joe P. will live on in the many lives he helped shape. Rest in peace, Joe. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered. The legacy of Coach Joe P. will live on in the many lives he helped shape. Rest in peace, Joe. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 💔🖤🙏🏼”
Joe is survived by his mother, Shirley, his son, Michael, and his daughter, Mia.
Steubenville High head football coach Reno Saccoccia remembered Joe as a “genuine person.”
“He was fun to be around,” Saccoccia told WTRF. “Always had a few laughs. But when it was time to work, he worked, and he worked hard. He took a lot of pride in what he did. So that’s probably what I’ll miss about him the most, is his hard work and dedication and his time for fun and laughter.”
Steubenville dedicated Friday night’s football game to Joe, just hours after he died.
“I thought our players did a fine job of representing him and what he stood for,” Saccoccia said.
Joe’s obituary remembered the late coach and mentor as being “kind and gentle.”
“Joe always had a smile on his face and had a way of making those around him feel comfortable,” the remembrance reads. “He will always be remembered for his easy going nature, his generosity, and the many lifelong friendships that he has made. Joe lived a selfless life and was most proud of his two children Michael and Mia.”
The obituary adds, “Joe loved family gatherings and spending time with his close friends. He especially enjoyed being outdoors and working in the yard. Whether coaching, spending time with those he loved, or simply helping someone in need, JoJo found happiness in the people around him.”
