In Loving Memory of Lisa Coffey: Beloved Teacher, Coach, and Mentor to Many
Sad news has touched the hearts of the Cosby School community and beyond. Former teacher and coach Lisa Coffey tragically passed away in a car accident on her way to school Monday morning. Her sudden loss has left students, staff, alumni, and friends reeling, as they mourn the passing of a woman who brought boundless joy, dedication, and energy into every life she touched.
Lisa Coffey served for many years as a respected math teacher at Cosby High School, where she not only taught with passion and precision, but also inspired with her infectious positivity and unwavering belief in her students. She was far more than an educator — she was a guiding light, a cheerleader, a mentor, and, for many, a lifelong friend.
Later, she continued her career at Cherokee High School, where she quickly became a beloved member of their faculty and school family. Her sudden passing is deeply felt across both institutions, as well as within the wider educational and athletic communities.
A Legacy Built on Heart and Leadership
Ms. Coffey’s impact at Cosby went far beyond the classroom. She was the visionary founder of the Lady Eagles volleyball program, building not just a team, but a sisterhood rooted in hard work, encouragement, and empowerment. Her players remember her for her fierce loyalty, patient guidance, and belief in their potential — both on and off the court.
She taught her students to serve more than volleyballs — she taught them to serve their communities, support their peers, and stand tall with confidence and kindness. Under her leadership, the volleyball program became a cornerstone of the Cosby athletic experience and continues to carry forward the culture she so lovingly cultivated.
The Spirit of Ms. Coffey
Lisa Coffey’s presence could light up a room — and often did. Whether it was her signature big smile, her unmistakable laugh, or her famous “snow dances” that rallied the school in hopes of a day off, she had a way of bringing people together. Her joy was contagious, her energy unwavering, and her commitment to her students unmatched.
She celebrated every achievement, listened when it mattered most, and reminded others — with her words and actions — that they mattered.
Beyond her role as a teacher and coach, she was a mentor and friend to so many across the EFL family and the local education community. Her reach extended into every hallway she walked, every classroom she entered, and every gym she coached in.
Mourning a Tremendous Loss
As the Cosby and Cherokee school communities process this heartbreaking loss, tributes have poured in from colleagues, former students, athletes, and friends. Many have shared stories of Lisa’s unwavering support during hard times, her genuine excitement for her students’ successes, and the way she made each person feel truly seen and heard.
Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of so many — yet her memory lives on through every lesson she taught, every team she coached, and every life she lifted.
Our hearts are with Lisa’s family, her many friends, the staff and students at Cherokee High School, and all those who knew and loved her. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and a deep devotion to the growth of others.
Carrying Her Light Forward
As the Cosby School community grieves this tremendous loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life of Lisa Coffey. Her memory will forever be part of the halls she once filled with learning and laughter, and her spirit will continue to guide the hearts of those she inspired.
In her honor, may we strive to bring the same positivity, kindness, and passion into the world that she so effortlessly shared every single day.
Rest in peace, Ms. Coffey. Your love for teaching and coaching lives on in every heart you touched. You will never be forgotten.
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