Among the greatest coaches of all time, Bobby Bowden was far more to a state that loves its sports.
In July, we reported that he had been diagnosed with a ‘terminal condition’ which we later learned was pancreatic cancer. His passing was announced Sunday morning.
Born in Alabama, Bowden played high school football and went on to become quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Because of team rules, Bowden left so he could marry as a college freshman. He continued his college playing days at Howard College where, after graduating, he became an assistant coach.
Bowden became head coach at South Georgia College, then at Howard, and then in 1963 at Florida State University as a position coach. After coaching at West Virginia, he returned to FSU as their head coach in 1976. It was his tenure in Tallahassee that developed Bowden into a college football legend.
As head coach, Bobby Bowden has the second most wins in Division 1/FBS history. He retired from coaching following the 2009 season. Many stand-out names have posted following the news of his passing.

— Derrick Brooks (@DBrooks55) August 8, 2021
I thank God for my relationship with Coach Bowden! I am so grateful to play for Coach Bowden.He built into our spirits”Faith,Family,Football” in that order! I will miss him and I hope to honor his legacy with how I live my life. RIP Coach B! pic.twitter.com/ndvP1ImVJb
God bless the Bowden Family,Friends & Loved ones. My Prayers are with u. I’ve lost 1 of the best coaches I’ve ever had. pic.twitter.com/aNvkMJ704c
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) August 8, 2021
A great coach, and an even better man. Praying for the Bowden family. https://t.co/2X7WYCHw4I
— Tim Tebow (@TimTebow) August 8, 2021
Coach Bowden made a huge impact on not only my life personally but so many others. He was blessed to have his family by his side when He passed away. My condolences to his wife Ann and their family.#dunndidit #bobbybowden
— Warrick Dunn (@WarrickDunn) August 8, 2021
Today as we mourn the passing of Coach Bobby Bowden, I reflect on his amazing legacy not just as a coach, but as a man, a mentor and an incredible person of faith. Please join me in keeping his family in prayer during this difficult time. 🙏🏾#BobbyBowden #FSUFootball #CharlieWard https://t.co/Jh9mY1s86t
— Charlie Ward (@RealCharlieWard) August 8, 2021
Today, we lost a legend. Bobby was a great friend and mentor to me, and his impact transcended the coaching profession in so many ways. Sending love to Ann and the entire Bowden family.
— Urban Meyer (@CoachUrbanMeyer) August 8, 2021
Rest In Peace Coach Bowden. pic.twitter.com/om6LRmkkIo
FSU President John Thrasher put out a statement on Twitter
— President John Thrasher (@FSUPresThrasher) August 8, 2021
[Source: ESPN.com]