Lurone Jennings spent decades shaping lives in Chattanooga through his work in sports, education, and faith-based ministry.
Highlights
- Lurone Jennings was a multifaceted leader who served as a coach, educator, minister, and community advocate, leaving a lasting impact on Chattanooga through his work at Brainerd High School, the Bethlehem Center, and Bethlehem United Methodist Church.
- He mentored notable figures like NFL Hall of Famer Reggie White and Olympic gold medalist Venus Lacy, shaping their early careers and inspiring countless others through his dedication to youth development.
- Jennings passed away at 70 after battling health issues, leaving behind a legacy of service, faith, and family, with tributes pouring in from the community he tirelessly supported.
Lurone Jennings, a beloved figure in Chattanooga, Tennessee, known for his decades of service as a coach, educator, and community leader, passed away on January 27, 2025, at the age of 70.
Jennings, affectionately called “Coach” by many, leaves behind a legacy of dedication to youth development, sports, and faith-based ministry.
His death marks the end of an era for those who knew him as a mentor, father figure, and tireless advocate for his community.
A Life Of Service And Leadership
Jennings’ career spanned over four decades, during which he wore many hats: teacher, football coach, principal, minister, and city administrator.
A 1972 graduate of Howard High School, Jennings returned to his alma mater as a teacher and coach after earning a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from Fisk University.
He later became the principal of Howard High, where he had once been a student, and served as the Director of Drug Education and Athletics for Hamilton County Schools.
Jennings’ coaching career included a three-year stint as the head football coach at Brainerd High School from 1989 to 1991.
During his tenure, he led the team to a 16-16 record, earning respect for his ability to inspire and develop young athletes.
Among his notable achievements was coaching NFL Hall of Famer Reggie White and Olympic gold medalist Venus Lacy, both of whom credited Jennings with shaping their early careers.
Happy Birthday to our Administrator. Lurone “Coach” Jennings. #CHA #smarterstudents pic.twitter.com/Xp9ER1zkIs
— Department of Community Development (@Chatt_CommDev) April 11, 2014
Beyond sports, Jennings was deeply involved in community service.
For over two decades, he served as the Executive Director of the Bethlehem Center, a nonprofit organization focused on youth development.
Under his leadership, the center expanded its educational programs and became a cornerstone of support for Chattanooga’s youth.
Jennings also founded the Bethlehem Community Development Credit Union, the first of its kind in Tennessee, to provide financial resources to underserved communities.
A Man Of Faith And Family
Jennings’ faith was a central part of his life.
Ordained as a Baptist minister in 1986, he later became a United Methodist minister and served as the founding pastor of Bethlehem United Methodist Church.
His ministry extended beyond the pulpit, as he often used his platform to mentor young people and address social issues affecting his community.
In 2005, he published Crisis in Urban America, a book exploring challenges faced by inner-city communities.
Jennings was also a devoted family man.
He was married to Glinda Jennings for over 44 years, and together they raised three children: Lurone Jr., Luronda, and David.
His daughter, Luronda, followed in his footsteps as an educator and coach, earning a doctorate in leadership and professional practice.
Jennings often spoke of the importance of family, crediting his wife and children for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Health Struggles And Passing
In the years leading up to his death, Jennings faced significant health challenges, including heart and kidney issues, as well as blindness.
Despite these difficulties, he remained active in his community, mentoring young people and collaborating with lifelong friends like musician Willie Kitchens.
His resilience and determination during this period were a reflection of his lifelong commitment to serving others.
Jennings’ passing was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from the Chattanooga community.
Former students, colleagues, and friends remembered him as a compassionate leader who dedicated his life to uplifting others.
Funeral arrangements were handled by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, with services held to honor his legacy.
A Lasting Legacy
Lurone Jennings’ impact on Chattanooga is immeasurable.
He touched countless lives from the football field to the pulpit, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and faith.
His work at the Bethlehem Center, his contributions to education, and his role as a mentor to young athletes and community members will be remembered for generations to come.
As Chattanooga mourns the loss of one of its most influential figures, Jennings’ life serves as a reminder of the power of dedication and the importance of giving back to the community.
His memory will live on in the hearts of those he inspired and the institutions he helped build.
Additional Information
- Lurone Jennings was the CEO and President of Royal Commercial Capital, a company he led with over 20 years of experience in residential mortgages.
- He wrote four books and served as an Associate Publisher for the Chattanooga News Chronicle.
- Jennings served as a minister in the United Methodist Church from 1995 to 2013.
