Longtime College Football Strength Coach Dead From Cancer At 61

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 1:35 PM ET

The University of Houston lost a beloved coach this past weekend.

Kurt Hester, the director of strength and performance for Houston's football team, passed away on Saturday after a battle with cancer. The 61-year-old coach is survived by his wife, Seana, and their three children, Sydney, Rieleah and Remy.

Hester died hours before No. 22 Houston knocked off No. 24 Arizona State on the road. The team dedicated that win to him.

"Kurt showed his unbreakable spirit every day," Houston football coach Willie Fritz said. "He had a tremendously positive influence on every single person in our program and on this program as a whole. Kurt was fortunate enough to love what he did for a living and had an unbelievable impact on so many people across so many programs. Kurt had his family, faith and football and that's what he cared about."

That was for you, Coach.

We are saddened by Kurt Hester’s passing away earlier today. He inspired us every day to be unbreakable. pic.twitter.com/reJvl4fqba
— Houston Football (@UHCougarFB) October 26, 2025

Prayers pouring in for the Hester family.

"Sending our prayers & support to the Hester family, Houston, and all who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time," TCU football said.

Baylor football said, "Sending our thoughts and prayers to all the friends, family and Houston."

"Rest in peace Coach. A great man was lost on this planet but his soul will speak forever through the lives he touched. May his close ones find the peace and comfort they deserve," one fan said.

"An incredible human & coach who made an impact that will last forever," another person wrote on X.

Hester was recently nominated for the 2025 Capital One Orange Bowl-FWAA Cougar Award. There's no question his legacy will live on for years to come.

Our thoughts are with the Hester family.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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