Texas high school football coach dies after three-year leukemia battle
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Jacob Johnson, head football coach and athletic director at Milsap High School west of Fort Worth, died Friday, Oct. 23, after a three-year battle with leukemia, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. He was 45.
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Johnson had shown signs of improvement before his leukemia relapsed in September, forcing him to step away from the sidelines for additional treatment.
Texas high school football coach Jacob Johnson died after a three-year leukemia battle. At his family's request, his team played Oct. 23, beating Eastland 63-0. (GarysFRP/Getty Images)"It is with genuine and deep sadness that we share the news that our colleague, coach and friend, Coach Jake Johnson, passed away earlier this morning," Millsap ISD said in a statement.
The district described Johnson as a respected member of the community whose contributions would affect generations of students.
At the request of Johnson's family, the game went ahead Friday at Bulldog Stadium, where Millsap beat Eastland 63-0.
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Johnson joined Millsap ISD in 2015 as head football coach and athletic director. He compiled a 52-71 record during his tenure.
Before Friday's game, the Bulldogs were 6-1 and undefeated through four district games.
Johnson's son, Braun, a junior running back for Millsap, had rushed for 1,815 yards and 33 touchdowns this season.
In an Oct. 11 interview with the Star-Telegram, Johnson described football as more than a sport.
"Football is a ministry to me. One hundred percent a ministry," Johnson said. "I don't care who you are. If you're going to step into our program, you're going to be treated the same way."
Johnson had planned to continue coaching remotely from the hospital while undergoing treatment.
Following his death, several North Texas football programs, including Tolar, Benbrook and Eagle Mountain, shared tributes honoring his legacy.
Johnson is survived by his wife, Cassie, and their children, Braun and Payton.
"He was the best football coach there ever was!" Cassie Johnson wrote on Facebook. "He always said it was his job to create men then teach them how to play football."
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