Zanesville Mourns the Sudden Loss of Josh Wright, Beloved Coach and Mentor at Berne Union High School
Zanesville, Ohio – The Zanesville and greater central Ohio communities are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Josh Wright, a deeply respected figure whose passing has left a profound void in the lives of countless students, athletes, colleagues, and loved ones. A former head football coach at Berne Union High School, Josh passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy built on mentorship, discipline, and unwavering dedication to the development of young people.
Josh Wright was far more than a coach—he was a motivator, a role model, and a guiding light to many. Known for his strong character, humility, and work ethic, he devoted much of his adult life to shaping the lives of high school athletes, instilling in them not only the fundamentals of football, but the values of perseverance, accountability, and respect. He believed that a coach’s greatest job was not just to build a winning team, but to build strong individuals prepared for life beyond the field.
Throughout his years at Berne Union and beyond, Josh’s influence could be felt in every huddle, locker room, classroom, and community event he attended. Players often recalled how he pushed them to be their best, not with harshness, but with belief—his unwavering faith in their potential made him a transformative figure in their lives. Whether it was an early morning practice, a tough loss, or a championship win, Josh remained a steady, encouraging presence.
A native of Zanesville, Josh had deep roots in central Ohio. He was a proud graduate of the area’s school system and carried a lifelong commitment to serving the region that raised him. His connection to the local community was authentic and enduring; whether volunteering at youth events, speaking at school assemblies, or simply offering advice to a young athlete in need, Josh made time for everyone.
Friends and colleagues describe Josh as a man of quiet strength, compassion, and immense integrity. He was known for his warm smile, his calming demeanor, and the way he could lift spirits just by walking into a room. His love for his players extended to their families, and over the years he built countless lasting relationships with parents, fans, and fellow educators. His commitment to education and mentorship never wavered, and many of his former students credit him as the person who changed the course of their lives.
Josh’s sudden passing has come as a shock to all who knew him, and while the exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, the outpouring of grief and love across social media and in school communities is a testament to the depth of his impact. Tributes from former students, athletes, coaching peers, and community leaders have poured in—each one highlighting a moment where Josh’s presence made a difference.
“Coach Wright taught me to believe in myself,” one former player wrote. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without his guidance.”
“He was more than a coach—he was family,” another said. “He cared about all of us, and it showed in everything he did.”
Josh is survived by his wife, children, parents, and a large extended family, along with generations of athletes and students whose lives he touched. While the grief is immeasurable, so too is the pride felt by those who had the honor of knowing and working with him.
A public memorial service and celebration of life will be held in the coming days, with details to be shared by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a youth athletic or mentorship organization in Josh’s memory—a fitting tribute to a man who gave his life to helping others grow and succeed.
Rest in peace, Josh Wright.
Your leadership, your compassion, and your unwavering belief in the potential of others will never be forgotten. You leave behind a legacy that will inspire and uplift for generations to come.