Former Virginia Tech head football coach Charlie Coffey dies at 81

Former Virginia Tech football head coach Charlie Coffey died at age 81 on Monday night.

Coffey coached in Blacksburg for three seasons in 1971-1973, compiling an overall record of 12-20-1.

Arguably, his best season came in 1972, in which the Hokies went 6-4-1, including the upsetting of then No. 19 Oklahoma State.

Throughout the late coach’s tenure, the Hokies became known for their patent passing attack, under which some school records were set and still stand. Some of Tech’s earned records were most completions in a game (34), yards passing in a game (527) and passing yards in a season (3,243).

Coffey was also known for being a large factor in bringing back excitement for Hokies football and energy to Lane Stadium.

After growing up in Shelbyville Tennessee and attending the University of Tennessee, Coffey embarked on a number of coaching experiences before coming to Virginia Tech. These included Hialeah High School in Miami Florida, George Washington University, Southeastern Lousiana State University, University of Arkansas and University of Tennessee.

After his tenured coaching with the Hokies, Coffey entered the trucking business in 1975.

The funeral service will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. at First Christian Church on Main Street in Shelbyville.