College football D-II national champion head coach dies at 82

The college football world lost a coaching great on Wednesday as former Jacksonville State Gamecocks head coach Bill Burgess died at the age of 82.

"On behalf of the entire JSU Family, we extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Burgess Family," school president Dr. Don Killingsworth said. 

"Coach Burgess launched JSU to national recognition in football and was one of the best at building young men into the great husbands, fathers, and community members that they are today. He will surely be missed, and all of the Burgess family and Gamecock Football family are in our prayers."

Burgess led the Gamecocks program from 1985 to 1996 and led the team to the NCAA Division II national championship during the 1992 season, in addition to making five appearances in the NCAA Division II Playoffs, as well.

A former fullback at Auburn in the early 1960s, Burgess finished his coaching career with an 84-49-4 total record and was named to the Jacksonville State Athletics Hall of Fame for his achievements.

Jacksonville State athletic director Greg Seitz paid tribute to the long-time coach.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Coach Burgess," Seitz said. 

"He was one of the best coaches to ever stand on a sideline and had as much of an impact on his players as any coach I've ever met. He had a tremendous career, but he was an even better man that left a lasting impression on anyone who had the honor of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Geynell, his children, family, players and staff members family during this difficult time."