Anthony “Tony” Underwood, known to everyone around Jefferson College simply as “Pooch,” died early this morning after a serious stroke late last month, close friends said. Underwood had been in hospice.
Family friend Jeff Rich said the coach had battled health issues for years, including a stroke a decade ago and a five-year fight with cancer.
“Our thoughts and prayers turn to the Jefferson College baseball family today,” the program posted, calling Underwood “a great man who will truly be missed.”
Jeff Rich, a longtime friend, said he delayed announcing the news so the family could be told first. “We’re all going to miss him,” Rich wrote. “He lives on through all those lives he touched.”
Players and colleagues poured out memories online and in messages to family.
Tributes Pour in from Former Colleagues and Students
CoachMazz, a former outfielder, remembered Underwood’s hard line on repetition and standards: “Our drills and reps were never ‘good enough’… That’s what I loved about him. He wanted us to be the best.”
That relentless push, Coach Mazz added, helped the team reach the top 10 during his two years playing under Underwood.
David Jarvis, a high school friend, recalled Underwood’s generosity and steady friendship: “He would do anything for you… He helped so many young men learn the skills of baseball, but also the basic life skills of being a good human being.”
Brian Wyatt called him the “best hitting coach you could ask for,” remembering long training days, tough talks, and the honest guidance that shaped players on and off the field.
Jeff Whitener and Jerry Wolsey both framed Underwood as a local legend. “This one hurts,” Whitener wrote.
“This man was responsible for helping raise generations of young men in our area.” Wolsey called him “a JeffCo Baseball legend,” praising his eye for talent and his straight talk.
Fans and former players echoed those sentiments across dozens of posts: “A true gentleman,” “A legend,” and “He will be missed.”
Parents and community members shared stories of his hands-on help from making recruiting calls to working with kids who were younger than most in lessons.
One father said Underwood even called an Oklahoma State coach to make sure his son got a fair look. “He made it happen,” the father wrote.
Another individual added, “Coach Underwood was an amazing man who gave much more to our community than he could have ever received. A great man who will truly be missed. Rest in peace, coach.”
Underwood’s nickname, “Pooch,” came from his grandmother and was how generations knew him.
Beyond the wins and the practices, friends say his legacy will be the countless players he pushed, mentored, and believed in.
Funeral arrangements and details about services are expected to be released by the family or the Jefferson College athletic department.
Friends asked anyone with photos or memories to share them with the family and the program when details are announced.
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