Belmont, Ohio, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The Belmont community is grieving the loss of Myles Bernard Witchey, a revered basketball coach and educator. Witchey, who impacted many lives during his tenure at California State, passed away at the age of 94. A celebration of his life is scheduled, allowing family, friends, and former players to honor his legacy and contributions to sports and education. Memorial contributions can be made to support young athletes in his name, ensuring his influence continues for generations to come.
Belmont, Ohio – Myles Bernard Witchey, widely known as “Coach,” passed away at the age of 94 on May 8, 2025. A celebrated figure in both basketball and education, Witchey left behind a rich legacy that impacted countless students and athletes throughout his life.
Born on December 19, 1930, in Shortcreek, Ohio, Witchey was the son of Walter and Hazel Mae (Reed) Witchey. He grew up in Belmont, Ohio, where he developed a passion for basketball at Belmont High School. This passion led him to continue his athletic career at West Liberty State College in Wheeling, West Virginia.
Witchey is survived by his two sons, Myles B. Witchey II and Bryan Wayne Witchey. His family also includes a grandson, Wyatt A. Witchey, and a granddaughter, Sierra Witchey. The mother of his two children, Bernadine (Schiavon) Witchey, currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky. Additionally, he shared a long-term relationship with Marie Horne and had several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Witchey’s life will take place during homecoming on October 18, 2025, at California University Vulcan (Adamson) Stadium College Farm pavilion from 12 PM to 9 PM. An intimate memorial will be held for family and players from 12 PM to 3 PM during this event. However, a traffic warning has been issued in anticipation of a town parade starting at 12 PM and a football game scheduled for 3 PM on the same day. Graveside services will be held on October 19, 2025, at 11 AM at Belmont Cemetery in Belmont, Ohio, led by Chaplain Leo Gonot, with Full Military Graveside Honors conducted by the Moundsville Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to The Coach Myles Witchey Scholarship Fund, which supports young athletes at Cal-U Penn West. Local arrangements for the services are managed by Toothman Funeral Home in St. Clairsville.
Witchey made significant contributions to basketball, especially during his lengthy tenure as head coach at California State, now known as Cal U. Serving from 1962 to 1978, he led the Vulcans to their first PSAC-West title in the 1966-67 season and achieved a remarkable state championship win in 1970 against Cheyney. Over his coaching career, he accumulated 182 victories, ranking third in career wins at Cal U.
In recognition of his accomplishments, Witchey was inducted into both the West Liberty Hall of Fame in 1993 and the Cal U Athletics Hall of Fame in 2002. In addition to his coaching role, he served as a physical education professor at Cal U and retired as department head in January 1988. He was also instrumental in developing a senior citizens’ swimming program during his teaching years, showcasing his dedication to the community and education.
Witchey’s considerable influence extended beyond the court, as he forged deep connections with his players, known as “The Band of Brothers,” who maintained contact with him until his passing. His enduring legacy lives on through the countless athletes he mentored and the educational programs he spearheaded.
FAQs
What was Myles Witchey’s date of birth?
Myles Bernard Witchey was born on December 19, 1930.
When did Myles Witchey pass away?
He passed away on May 8, 2025.
What contributions did Witchey make to basketball?
Witchey was a head coach for the California State basketball team from 1962 to 1978, leading them to significant victories, including their first PSAC-West title.
Where will the celebration of his life be held?
The celebration will occur on October 18, 2025, at California University Vulcan (Adamson) Stadium College Farm pavilion.
How can people honor Myles Witchey?
The family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Coach Myles Witchey Scholarship Fund, benefiting young athletes at Cal-U Penn West.
Key Features of Myles Witchey’s Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 19, 1930 |
| Date of Passing | May 8, 2025 |
| Coaching Tenure | 1962 – 1978 at California State |
| Key Achievements | 182 career wins, first PSAC-West title, state championship in 1970 |
| Inductions | West Liberty Hall of Fame (1993), Cal U Athletics Hall of Fame (2002) |
| Survived By | Two sons, a grandson, and a granddaughter |
| Celebration of Life | October 18, 2025 |
| Graveside Services | October 19, 2025 |
| Scholarship Fund | Coach Myles Witchey Scholarship Fund at Cal-U Penn West |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Leader: Coach Myles Bernard Witchey
- Wikipedia: Basketball
- Legacy: Myles Witchey Obituary
- Google Search: Myles Witchey
- Herald-Standard: Vulcan Builder Witchey
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
