12:15am I woke up, looked at the clock, closed my eyes and that is when my cell phone rang. It was from one of Tina's friends, who was at Emory with her, saying that our friend, coach, mentor, father, son, cousin, nephew, teacher, husband and inspiration has passed. Jeff's gone.
As more information becomes available, I will post it. Please keep praying for the Blount family. We're going to grieve, but then we need to regroup and give back to this family what Jeff gave all of us- unconditional support. He prepared us for this without even knowing that was what he was doing.
If anyone needs to get in contact with me, you can email me at brandiwatson@yahoo.com or call me at 770-652-5774.
To all of Jeff's students & athletes, please go talk to your parents, teachers or counselors if you feel weird or overwhelmed with this situation.
*** Arrangements are being made. I will post them as soon as they are finalized. The service for Jeff could be as early a Sunday afternoon, but that is not confirmed.
Sympathy cards can be mailed to the Blount Family at 3525 Tiffany Drive, SE, Conyers, GA 30013. ***
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2006 5/6 CARDINALS
56 comments:
There's a great game being coached in Heaven.
Jeff,
We'll miss you so much. What a blessing you were to so many kids and adults. Your life will not be forgotten. It was a priviledge to grow up with you and be a Rockdale Bulldog. I had fun cheering you on at football and hanging out in the dugout in baseball.
Tina, Matt, Drew and Megan,
Our prayers will be with you as you walk through this unknown land of grief. We pray that God will just hold you tight during this time. Please know that the entire congregation of Ebenezer United Methodist Church is also praying.
Blessings, peace and hope,
Chris, Kerra, Christian, Conner and Kate Domaleski
Matt you and your family are in my prayers.
Rhonda Alford
Dear friends, we cannot begin to say how much Jeff meant to our family. Please know that God holds you in the palm of His hand. We love you all.
Jeff,
What an example you have left for your football players, students, colleagues, and community. Lives have been and will continue to be changed. SHS will never be the same for me without you two doors down, but I know that God works for the good of those who love Him and belong to Him.
Jennifer Gay (aka: "Mrs. Happy")
While we are so overwhelmed with grief and loss and know you feel it so much more, I know Heaven is such a much sweeter place with Jeff being there. How wonderful it must have been for him to see the sweet face of our Saviour...finally.
I pray our Saviour fills the void in your lives that only He can fill. I pray He gives you the "peace that passes all understanding" and wraps His "everlasting arms" around you to comfort you. We love you so much! We are praying for you as well as the First Baptist Church of Conyers.
Love,
Chri and Melodie Wood
While we are so overwhelmed with grief and loss and know you feel it so much more, I know Heaven is such a much sweeter place with Jeff being there. How wonderful it must have been for him to see the sweet face of our Saviour...finally.
I pray our Saviour fills the void in your lives that only He can fill. I pray He gives you the "peace that passes all understanding" and wraps His "everlasting arms" around you to comfort you. We love you so much! We are praying for you as well as the First Baptist Church of Conyers.
Love,
Chris and Melodie Wood
Jeff -
God's peace be with you. As my son said, maybe God has a football team that needs some help in Heaven. You have left a hole here on Earth, but I know you are in a righteous and good place. I love you and will never forget you.
Tina -
Jeff has taken the easy road to Heaven - no more worries for him. You now are facing the walk of your life. We are all here to walk along with you. Never think you are alone. When my mom passed I kept saying "nothing is normal" and a wise friend of mine told me - Your normal will change. In all the hurt and anger I didn't realize what that meant, but finally as the days passed, my normal changed. I am praying for you and the kids. Call me anytime you need to talk or cry or even rant and rage.
We love you and are with you -
Billie, Jordan and Jaxon Bilbrey
Christina Marie - You were a great coach in the game that was just played. Know that we are here for you in anyway that you need us.
Matt, Drew and Megan - we love you and know that that we are praying for you. Live your life as Daddy would have wanted you to.
Jeff - You know how much you are loved. I sure do miss the fun times we had when Drew was small. You will be missed more than you ever knew! I love you!!
Nicole Norman
We are deeply saddened by Coach's passing! You will be extremely missed by so many. You've touched our lives & we will remember the life lessons you've taught us w/ great drive! You'll be coaching us from up above instead of the sidelines! All our love to the Family! Tina, Matt, Drew & Megan!
The Burdett's, The McCullough's, & The Hansen's
Dale, Christi, Bo, Barrett, Honey, Chuck, Tracy, Conor, Reilly, Vicki, & Jerry
PEACE OUT!!!
Dear Tina,
There is no doubt where Jeff is today. I rejoice that he is without pain and suffering, but I pray for you and your precious children. Please take comfort in knowing that you are surrounded by tremendous love and prayers. Indeed, Heaven has a new angel.
Much love,
Heather Morris and family
Jeff,
What an inspiration you have been to so many people and now the Lord has called you to be a coach in Heaven and to think you now have the best seat in the house for all the Georgia and Salem games.
Tina,
Please know I am here for you and the family no matter what you need whether it be a dinner cooked or one of the kids picked up or taken somewhere, anything! You know how great of a person Jeff was here on this earth think of how great he is going to be in Heaven! Know he is in no more pain and there is a peace. Tina you are a very strong person, but know you will never be alone, we will all be here today, tomorrow and forever to walk along with you.
We love you,
Elaine Hale
Tina,
Hey sorry to hear about Jeff. Just wanted to let you know you and the family are in our prayers.
Kathy and Deborah
Although I did not know Jeff personally, I have been following his and Tina's journey for the past few months. I wanted to to say thanks for sharing your ups and downs. Sorry to hear about Jeff this morning. May you all find peace to get through the next few months.
Lisa T.
Go Dawgs!!
This morning in first period, a student came to me and quietly asked if he could write something about Coach Blount on my board for the class to see. He wrote the following:
"Coach Blount was a great man, and a loving father, and a faithful husband. He helped to make me the man I am today." - Drew Allen
Yet another student who was changed because of the way Jeff Blount chose to live his life.
I am so sorry to hear about Jeff. Heaven received a Wonderful and Strong Man this morning. He is watching over us...
Tina , I will continue to keep you and the rest of the family in my thoughts and prayers . Jeff was a fighter...... We love him and will miss him.
We all remember Coach Blount. I've known him since I was a little kid running around Four Seasons. We will be praying for the family.
Tina,
We're so sorry! May our Lord's peace fill you and give you strengh.
Love to all of the family,
Mike and Julianna
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Jeff definitely left a lasting memory here on earth.
Love & Prayers,
JD, Wendy, Justin & Jason
I will always remember Jeff the way he made me laugh!I will miss him!
He is in my thoughts because he was a great man.
Danny D. Blount
Tina,
I’ve been sitting here crying for hours, and trying to think of something to say that would adequately express my sorry at the loss of Jeff, and my love for you, Megan, Drew, Matt and of course, Lacy. But, there just are not enough words -- I can only say now much Jeff will be missed, and offer my help in any way possible to you and your family. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers as you travel this most difficult road of loss and sorrow.
Salem HS, Conyers, and the world for that matter, will never be the same without Jeff. I know you feel as though your heart and your life have totally been destroyed, but you have two beautiful children that are a part of Jeff you will always have, and they will forever carry his legacy, and be a constant reminder of the love you shared.
He was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, coach & friend, and will be missed by all.
Jo Anne Treadwell
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff's family. Coach Blount was always an inspiration of hard work and dedication.
Like Jeff says in his video, God has a purpose in everything. Sometimes we may not grasp what that purpose is. Faith is the answer.
God Bless
Cory Blackmon
Rockdale County High c/o 98
Jeff,
I can't imagine what a great plan god has for you by calling you to be with him at such a young age. We are all saddened by our loss of your physical being here on earth, however we will always remember and never forget all you have given to this community, your friends and family. I appreciate all you have done for my boy's.
Take care my friend save me a set in gods stadium.
Our prayers are with you and your family. Jeff has always been one of the nicest guys we have ever met. He has left such a legacy in this community- we are very proud of him. It sounds like your family has fought a very good fight. We pray for your peace and protection in the journey ahead. Church in the Now is praying for you.
David and Tracy (Kiser) Mathis
"Do not fear" for me my wife, because I am not alone. I've gone to be with the lord, at a place I now call home. "Do not fear" for me my sister, my pain is gone at last. God took me up to heaven and put it in the past. "Do not fear" for me my mother and father, to you both I will always be bound. Just know that it is God's love that keeps me safe and sound. "Do not fear" for me my children, because I can't be there to watch you go through life. Just know that I was there the day you took your husband and wife."Do not fear" for me my loved ones, because we are apart. If you want to have me near you, all just look inside your heart.
Jeff will be missed by many - our prayers are with the family at this time
The Murray's
Bishop, William, Deidre, and Marisa
Jeff,
What an inspiration you have been to us all! You not only taught my son how to play baseball and football but you have taught my entire family how to fight to the finish. You have touched so many lives in such a positive way! You will be sorely missed but rest assured that you will live on in our hearts!!
You are our HERO Jeff!!!
Tammy, Mike and Blake Maddox
through our tears, jeff, we laugh at the many many times you liked to make us laugh all together as a family. there are no words to describe how you will be missed.
cousin Heather
We are deeply saddened and our prayers are with the Blount's. Jeff was an inspiration to all who knew him. He had his heart and soul in his family, coaching, teaching and just being Jeff. He always had a smile and time for the kids. I am glad that both of my sons can say Coach Blount made an impression on their lives.
Cheri, Jeffery and Tony Boudreaux
I was very saddened to hear of Jeff's passing today. We are praying for all of you during this very difficult time. Heaven has another Angel to look over all of us now!
Molli Brown, Tyler and McKenna Bishop
A great man who did not go quiet into that good night. He will be missed. I am sure Jeff will be in the balcony of heaven with Jesus with a Georgia G on his robe. God bless you brother and God bless Tina and the kids.
Jeff,
You will be greatly missed by many. The impact you have placed in this community will survive and go on. Thanks fo rbeing such a great coach, teacher, parent, and husband. You were a really great mentor for our children. May God bless your family in their times of sorrow.
Julie, Danielle & Cole
I am so sad, but am trying to remember the fun times Jeff, Tina,Bret and myself have had. Many UGA games of tailgaiting...many baseball games at RCHS way back when. I love Tina, Jeff, Matt, Drew, and Megan and are praying for you. I know Jeff is probably in heaven sitting with UGA VI and other UGA fans. Life is short and Jeff knew how to enjoy it.
Jeff, I will never forget how happy you looked last week in the Seminole Stadium press box. You were back in your element and that is how I will always remember you. Blake, Sam, and the offensive line from last year loved you dearly and will miss you greatly. I still laugh at how you waited for me to come to school to feed the boys last year for over 30 minutes so you could be the first one to tell me that you all shaved Blake's head!! There is no one like you, and you have been an inspiration to our family and community.
We will keep your legacy alive so your children will always know what a great Christian man their father was. We will also hold Tina up in prayer and support. Your work is done here and you watch over us from heaven.
Love all you Blounts,
The Hullett Family - Blake #59
I am so sorry for your lost. Salem has lost a great teacher and coach. I am praying for all of his family and friends who have been affected by this. Heaven will be even better with Coach Blount there!
Love,
Allie Schlumper
Salem Class of 2006
Tina, Matt, Drew & Megan
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. We know Jeff is in a better place. He was a great person an example of God's love for his family and friends. He will be missed.
Love,
Aunt Loretta & Don
I had the honor of knowing Jeff Blount as both a student and as a fellow coworker. In both of those jobs he served as so many. He was always there for comedic relief, support, and most of all friendship. Jeff I will miss you dearly. Thank you for everything that you have done for me, Salem, and all of Conyers. You were taken far too soon and I have to believe that there is a purpose far greater than we all understand right now.
Tina, Matt, Drew and Megan,
You had the honor of having a wonderful person in your life. Know that he will always be with you. He was truly an amazing man.
Nancy Hill
I only heard of Jeff through my wife's days at Salem and some other family. I just went through the entire blog to see the progress, and I remember the bike ride. I did not know the man, but I could feel the journey that was posted here.
Nonetheless, I ask the Creator to bring all of his family, friends and supporters the comfort and closure they need.
Our prayers are with you, we pray that God will comfort you during this difficult time.
I went to RCHS and graduated in 1990 and knew Jeff's sister. Tracy. I am sooooo deeply sorry - and I will pray that God will keep your family all the days of your life and that God will heal and shelter your pain. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Abby Addis Liberatore
Plantation, FL
My thoughts and prayers go out to Coach Blount's family. Coach Blount was always an inspiration of hard work and dedication.
Like Coach Blount says in his video, God has a purpose in everything. Sometimes we may not grasp what that purpose is. Faith is the answer.
God Bless
Danielle Grant
Rockdale County High c/o 99
Tina, We are so sorry for you loss. We offer your our hearts and deepest sympathy. Jeff was a Hell of a coach, I should know, he beat my team everytime we played them! He ALWAYS had a word of encouragement for our son at the ballfield. Jeff you will be remembered forever and greatly missed. Drew,buddy, hang in there. There is so much love for you and Megan it cannot even be measured. Keep your head up. Stay strong. Love The Fosters. Greg, Tonya, Gregory, and Tierra.
Tina, We are so sorry for you loss. We offer your our hearts and deepest sympathy. Jeff was a Hell of a coach, I should know, he beat my team everytime we played them! He ALWAYS had a word of encouragement for our son at the ballfield. Jeff you will be remembered forever and greatly missed. Drew,buddy, hang in there. There is so much love for you and Megan it cannot even be measured. Keep your head up. Stay strong. Love The Fosters. Greg, Tonya, Gregory, and Tierra.
Dear Blount Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Your entire family is such an inspiration to those that know you and even those who don't. There is so much love coming from your family. You can see it in your marriage to each other and as parents to your three beautiful kids. May God shine his light on all of you.
Love,
Sam, Cheire, Boston & Braden Allen
Jeff,
I will always remember the days at RYBA. You set the standard for success and sportsmanship in youth coaching. You will always be a friend and an example of goodness. Your constant positive attitude and willingness to help people will be greatly missed. My family sends prayer and hope for the times that follow this tragic event. Please remember, God is good - all the time.
Love,
Jeff, Angela, Trent, Zach and Lila Whitmire
Sometimes the BEST way for GOD to protect you is for you to be with him. I'm sure Coach Blount is well protected were he is. The ENTIRE Blount family will be in my prayers. Stay strong!
Love Tiffanee Green
Sometimes the BEST way for GOD to protect you is for you to be with him. I'm sure Coach Blount is well protected were he is. The ENTIRE Blount family will be in my prayers. Stay strong!
Love Tiffanee Green
Salem 2006 and 2007 Football Manager
Today is hard for us because we all knew Jeff, and our lives are far better because we knew Jeff. Tina, Drew, Megan, and Matt - our hearts, thoughts, and prayers go out to you.
The Swords Family
We have all been blessed in our lives having known and loved Jeff Blount. Our family will always treasure our times together with his family. Tina, Matt, Drew, and Megan- we are praying for your peace. Heaven is one lucky place to have such a great man there.
Mike, Tracy, Rocky, Reece, & Tessa
Coach Blount,
You will never be forgotten. I personally will miss you so much, you were such a great inspiration to my life. You taught me many things that others couldnt.I won't forget I came up to you and gave you a HUGE hug at the heritage salem game i told you how great it was to see you and you said the same in return, you told me that i look more and more like my momma everytime you see me, i kinda giggled a little and you said girl don't laugh i'm serious. I ended the conversation by telling you again how much i missed you and i said i love you coach blount and you looked at me and said thats what keeps me fighting in side, I will never forget the last words that we had with each other. I know your in a better place now and you don't have to suffer, but on a good note THANK YOU, thank you for everything you ever did for me and thank you for always being a person that people could come to with there problems. You were one of the best people that ever walked through Salem High School and I will never let anyone forget that as long as i live. Coach Blount I love you and will forever miss you.
Mrs. Tina,
You and your family have been and still will be in my prayers, you are very lucky to have had someone like coach Blount in your life, you know he was a great man. I just want to let you know my family is here if you need us. I know this is hard but just know that Coach Blount is in a better place now, and remember he touched so many peoples lives, even if it was just with a smile. I love you and your family and I will keep praying for yall.
In the words of coach blount
"keep on keepin on"
With Love,
Lorin Sise
Praise God as believers in Jesus Christ, we will be reunited with Jeff one day...right now he is walking and leaping and praising God....and hollaring "GoDawgs!"
oops...by the way Queenie is Buddy & Lynn:)
Last friday, the grand opening of Seminole Stadium... I was on top of the press box filming the game. When i climbed down to get something to drink I was totally suprised to see a man who I had known for so many years, as a coach, a teacher, a friend, and mentor. I will never forget the last words Coach Blount and I exchanged... All I could say when I saw he was "Keep fighting coach, its great to see you" and what I got in return was a "Caleb, God keeps me fighting everyday and God is the strength that keeps me going". Yesterday while I reflected on the life of such a great man I remembered that last coversation. Now I see no reason in tears, he will be missed greatly but he is in a great place. A Christian man that will continue to live in the hearts of many and forever in glory.
Mrs. Lisa,
All i can do is continue to pray for you and your family. Your husband taught me and many others great life lessons and we can never thank him enough. In a time like this I'm sure you are experiencing many emotions. Just know that Coach is in heaven watching you and the rest of the family and his legacy lives on in everyone he touched.
God's Strength be with you all,
Caleb Buxton
You will be greatly missed by many. The impact you have placed in this community will survive and go on. Thanks for being such a great coach, teacher, parent, and husband. You were a really great mentor for everyone. May God bless your family in their times of sorrow. Also sometimes the BEST way for GOD to protect you is for you to be with him. I'm sure Coach Blount is well protected were he is. The ENTIRE Blount family will be in my prayers.
Love Roma Patel
Salem 2007 Football Manager
I am so sorry to hear about Jeff. Heaven received a Wonderful and Strong Man this morning. He is watching over us...Jeff will also give us peace and knowledge...and knowing that he is on our side watching over us gives me great peace.
Tina , I will continue to keep you and the rest of the family in my thoughts and prayers . Jeff was a fighter...... We love him and will miss him.
All my love to you and your family;
Alexis Kelly
September 12, 2008 8:39 AM
Wow.. I can't believe its been over two years since the most Inspirational person I have ever come in contact with went home.. I think about him from time to time. I see Tina and Drew a good bit.. Haven't quite seen Megan and Matt lately. But all the same I enjoy seeing you guys around. You are all a major inspiration to me, just as Coach was. When I walked the halls of Salem I would think about him. When I marched in the Marching Band I would find myself thinking of him...
The day after he passed I attended a horse show at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers. In our morning warm ups I wore my maroon(burgundy whatever) shirt that I bought from him. It had silver sharpie written on the bottom on the back underneath his words stating his Birthday and the day he left. Also with the words "A Salem Seminole Forever. We Played For You".. Along with it was the score of the game we won for him that night.. I was stopped several times and asked about my shirt. I wish I had a picture to share of it. I supported him throughout it all and would like him to know that even today I have his shirt and will never stop supporting him.
Coach, I love you very much. You were and remain to this day to be one of my greatest inspirations.
----------------------------------
"Do Not Fear"
Wow! What words of Love and adoration for my amazing brother. Just reading as I have felt Jeff so close lately. Thank you to everyone that expressed your thoughts here; know your words help me and my family to cry and smile again and again.
Heartfelt and humbled,
Traci Blount Kitchens
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