Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By: Casey Roberts

 

William Edward “Bill Ed” Leedy, the beloved coach and first head football coach of Lincoln County High School, passed away on Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, at Fort Logan Hospital. He was 96.

Leedy’s life was defined by a relentless passion for teaching, coaching, and mentoring young people. A native of Harlan, he moved to Lincoln County in 1936 and graduated from Stanford High School in 1946.

His early career began as a counselor at the School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, before earning his degree from Eastern Kentucky University in 1951. Following two years of service in the U.S. Army, Leedy began a storied career in education and athletics.

Leedy’s coaching journey spanned decades and included roles at several Kentucky schools, such as Harrodsburg High School, Carlisle High School and Henry County High School.

He joined Stanford High School in 1966, where he coached for eight seasons and led the team to a 49-23-5 record, culminating in the school’s first-ever Kentucky High School Athletic Association playoff berth in 1969.

In 1974, Leedy became the inaugural head coach of the Lincoln County High School Patriots, a team formed after the consolidation of Stanford High and four other schools. In the Patriots’ first season, Leedy led them to a 6-4 record, laying the foundation for a program that has since reached the state finals twice, won multiple regional championships, and produced a Kentucky Mr. Football.

Over 22 seasons as a head coach, Leedy amassed an impressive 85-102-8 record, leaving an indelible mark on Kentucky high school football.

Leedy’s contributions extended beyond football. He served as an assistant basketball coach, head golf coach and as a part-time groundskeeper at Dix River Country Club until the age of 87. He also worked as a timekeeper for Lincoln County High School basketball games from 1976 to 2012. In recognition of his legacy, Lincoln County High School named its football field in his honor in 2011.

Remembered for his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his faith and community, Leedy was admired not just as a coach but as a mentor and friend to countless players and colleagues. His impact on Lincoln County’s athletic programs and the broader community is immeasurable.

A true icon in Lincoln County, Leedy’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes and community members