'More than just a coach': Community mourns unexpected loss of Hurricane High coach

HURRICANE — A community is mourning the loss of a man they say was "more than just a football coach."

Preston Jenkins was a coach for the Hurricane High School football team who passed away suddenly on April 15. His death is being described as a devastating loss.

"Hurricane Tiger Football mourns the loss of a great man," a social media post on the team's page reads. "Coach Preston Jenkins, Captain GoPro, Mr. One Wheel. Our sideline hype man. The voice everyone wanted to hear cheering them on.

"We are devastated by the news of his passing. We will continue to Out Hit, Out Hustle, for Coach Preston Jenkins."

Jenkins was with the team for two seasons, and according to a GoFundMe*, he had a "special gift for working with freshmen."

"He ... (helped) them not only learn the game of football but also find confidence, purpose and belonging," the fundraising page read. "His passion for the sport was undeniable, but even more powerful was the way he showed up for his players every single day."

Jenkins "hadn't been feeling well, making this loss even more shocking and difficult to process," the fundraiser says.

Jenkins leaves behind his wife, Rebecca Jenkins, of five years. She told KSL that her husband "had a passion for adventure, helping the community" and "just loving everyone he met."

Funds raised are intended to help with "funeral expenses and the need for ongoing support."

*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited into the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.

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