LORETTO, Pa. (July 29, 2008) – Saint Francis University was deeply saddened over the weekend to learn that former Red Flash men’s basketball player Jeff Churchill passed away unexpectedly on Sunday at the age of 31.

A native of Altoona, and a 1994 graduate of Altoona Area High School, Churchill played under former Saint Francis head men’s basketball coach Tom McConnell from 1994-98. Saint Francis compiled an overall record of 44-55 in his four seasons, and made the Northeast Conference playoffs each of those seasons.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Jeff Churchill,” said Bob Krimmel, Saint Francis’ Director of Athletics. “Jeff was a special person who touched so many lives as a student-athlete, husband, father, son, coach and teacher. He conveyed his joy for life through his giving to others and his outgoing personality. He will always be remembered as a special part of our Red Flash family. He will be sorely missed.”

Churchill is survived by his mother Wanda, as well as his wife Jacqueline and daughter Kaitlin, who was born in 2007. The former Jacqueline Nugent is also a graduate of Saint Francis.

Churchill received his Bachelor of Science degrees in biology and secondary education from Saint Francis in 1999. He was employed by the Penns Manor School District as a special education teacher in the emotional support classroom for five years. He was the head coach for the Comets’ varsity boy’ basketball program. Churchill was named the 2005-06 Coach-of-the-Year for Section One, and 2006-07 Outstanding Coach-of-the-Year for Penns Manor School District.  

Jeff Churchill's Career Stats at Saint Francis