[Update] Coach Chris Tolliver, A True Warrior – Death

Remembering Warrior Coach Chris Tolliver

Southwestern High School Varsity Boys’ Assistant Basketball Coach and Junior Varsity Head Coach Chris Tolliver passed away on Monday. Tolliver was an integral member of Coach Jeron Dunbar’s coaching staff over the past two seasons at Southwestern, leaving behind numerous cherished memories as a Warrior. Coach Dunbar spoke highly of Tolliver, who served as a true representative of the Southwestern High School boys’ basketball program.

Embodying the Spirit of a Warrior

“He embodied what being a Warrior really is,” Dunbar stated emphatically. “He played a major role in shaping what we are building here. His infectious smile and laughter brought joy to everyone around him. Every player we have today has played for him on the JV team at some point in the last three years. One of the most impressive aspects of Chris was his ability to develop deep, meaningful relationships with players, students, colleagues, and anyone else he crossed paths with.”

A True Friend and Mentor

Dunbar also revealed that outside of school, Tolliver had become one of his closest friends.

“Personally, he was God-sent to this program,” Dunbar continued. “When I took the job, I struggled to fill my staff. However, after reviewing Chris’s resume and speaking with him on the phone once, I knew he was the ideal person to push our program’s vision forward. He demonstrated unwavering loyalty and dedication not only to our basketball kids but to every student in the school. Chris quickly became one of my closest friends. We communicated every day that we weren’t together. He not only made me a better coach but also a better person.”

A Journey of Coaching Excellence

Tolliver arrived at Southwestern after serving as an assistant at Olney Junior College in Illinois, head coach at Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, Tenn., and head coach at Thomas Nelson High School. Coach Dunbar firmly believed that Tolliver would have eventually become a head coach again, but he chose to commit his heart and soul to Southwestern, dedicating himself fully to the local program.

Chris Tolliver obituary: Honoring a Beloved Coach

Looking ahead, Coach Dunbar mentioned some distinctive tributes planned for the upcoming season, including honoring the “Chris Tolliver Obituary” with heartfelt dedication.

“This season is dedicated to him, in loving memory of the beloved Coach Chris Tolliver. We will be meeting to discuss ways to honor his memory in the days to come. Throughout the season, we will place a shirt over the first chair on our bench in his memory for every game, paying tribute to the lasting legacy left by Coach Tolliver. As the games begin, we will find other meaningful ways to celebrate and cherish his impact on the team and the community. No gesture can ever be enough to express our gratitude for all that he did for us. Our players, school, community, and, most importantly, his family, ask for your prayers in the coming days, weeks, and months as we navigate the difficult year ahead. Rest assured, Chris Tolliver’s legacy will shine brightly,” he expounded.

A Farewell with Deepest Sympathies

Our heartfelt prayers go out to the family, friends, players, and fellow coaches of Chris Tolliver. In loving memory of Coach Chris Tolliver, a true Warrior – a coach, an inspiration, and a mentor to countless students and athletes at Southwestern. His unwavering dedication to his team and the school community made him a true Warrior in every sense.

Leaving an Indelible Mark

Coach Tolliver’s passion for the game and commitment to nurturing young talent have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His influence extended far beyond the basketball court, as he instilled values of perseverance, teamwork, and sportsmanship in every player he coached, both on the field and in the classroom.

Honoring the Legacy

As we grieve this tremendous loss, we fondly remember the countless victories he led us to, the invaluable life lessons he taught, and the unwavering support he provided to his students and athletes. Coach Tolliver truly left a lasting legacy at Southwestern.

Embracing the Spirit of the Warrior

In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Coach Tolliver’s family. May they find solace in the memories of a remarkable individual who touched so many lives. Let us come together as a community to honor his memory and carry the Warrior spirit he instilled in us, continuing his legacy for generations to come.

Chris Tolliver Obituary 

The loss of Chris Tolliver has left a void in the community, and it is natural to experience grief and a range of emotions during this time. It is essential to support one another, share memories, and seek solace in the collective bond built by Chris Tolliver’s legacy. Together, we can find healing and strength in celebrating their life. 

Chris Tolliver Obituary will be updated as soon as accurate information is available. Family, friends, and community members are encouraged to gather to honor and pay their respects to this remarkable individual. Let us come together to celebrate Chris Tolliver’s life, acknowledging the impact they had on each of us.