CLARKSBURG, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Staff, students, and community members throughout Harrison County are mourning the tragic loss of a teacher and coach following a Tuesday morning accident in the school’s parking lot.
Coach and educator, Ryan Lantz is confirmed to have passed before the start of the school day on Tuesday, with the unfortunate news having been shared by the Harrison County Board of Education in a statement released later that morning.
“The Harrison County Board of Education is deeply saddened to announce the tragic passing of a respected teacher at Liberty High School,” the statement read. “The loss of a beloved teacher is a profound tragedy for our school community. Our thoughts are with the families involved during this difficult time.”
The board would subsequently cancel all extracurricular activities at the school, along with previously scheduled Harrison County Board of Education meetings, out of respect to those impacted by the tragic occurrence.
An outpouring of love and grief has been seen from community members throughout Harrison County and beyond, with those who knew Lantz expressing the severity of the loss.
“It is impossible to find the words to describe Coach Lantz and the incredible man that he was. He was a proud Christian, a man who cherished his family, a tenacious coach, and a loving educator. He was one of the best friends you could ask for,” said Liberty educator and Head Football Coach, AJ Harman. “We had countless conversations that went far beyond game plans and the playing field. I’m a better man because I knew him and leaned on him so often in what seemed like any situation in life. His impact on our players and students will be felt forever.”
A GoFundMe memorial fund organized by Lantz’s niece, Chelsea Holyfield, has been established to ease the financial burden brought about by medical and funeral costs brought about as a result of the unexpected tragedy.
“I am struggling to find the words to describe what Ryan meant to all of us,” said Holyfield. “He was a great dad, husband, pawpaw, son, brother, uncle, coach, pastor, teacher, and follower of Christ. He will be missed by so many that had the pleasure of knowing him or got to hear him play guitar or his sermon around the campfire at Church Camp.”
Those interested in contributing to the Ryan Lantz Memorial Fund may do so here.
