A Champion of Character, Faith, and Unconditional Love
Long-time Harrodsburg High School football coach Alvis Johnson recently passed away at age 76, leaving behind a legacy that stretches far beyond the football field. More than just a coach, Johnson was a mentor, teacher, spiritual leader, and a true father figure to many of the young men who passed through his program.
Johnson’s impact on athletics is undeniable. He sent several players to the University of Kentucky, including his sons Dennis and Derrick Johnson, and standout receiver Craig Yeast. Five of his former players even went on to enjoy careers in the NFL — a testament to his skill as a coach and his eye for talent. But those close to him know that his real strength was in the hearts he shaped, not just the athletes he produced.
“Coach is always in our prayers. He lived a phenomenal life and affected so many lives with his discipline, tough love or just straight love,” said Yeast, UK’s second all-time leading receiver.
“Coach Johnson was our high school history teacher, our head football coach, our athletics director, our head track coach.”
Johnson didn’t just teach lessons in sports and academics. He taught lessons in life — led by his unwavering faith and commitment to God. His role as a deacon at Centennial Baptist Church was just as significant as his role on the sidelines.
“But the more important aspect that affected all of us was his faith in God. He was a deacon in the church and remains a deacon at Centennial Baptist Church,” Yeast reflected.
Today, Craig Yeast coaches the Mercer County Titans — the same team he once played for under Johnson’s leadership. The field they now compete on bears the name Alvis Johnson Field, a daily reminder of the man whose influence still lives on in every huddle, every play, and every young life touched by the program.
“There will never be another man like Alvis Johnson. We can only strive to be as close to the type of man as he is,” Yeast said.
“I love that man. I love Mrs. (Rosetta) Johnson. There was a time in my life if not for them I do not know if I would have made it to college and be where I am today.”
“Coach Johnson is a man of faith and then a coach. He is a great individual, a man who loves God. We are all part of his family. He loves us all unconditionally and that will never change.”
Coach Alvis Johnson’s life is a powerful reminder that true greatness is not measured by wins or stats, but by how deeply you inspire others. His legacy is one of unconditional love, faith, and selfless service. In a world often focused on the scoreboard, Coach Johnson proved that the most important victories happen off the field — in classrooms, churches, and hearts. He didn’t just coach athletes — he built men.
Source:
- https://youtu.be/djqEEj3EO-0?si=GEu1S9_DO3hwTc-3
- https://www.yoursportsedge.com/2023/07/28/craig-yeast-will-always-remember-alvis-johnsons-unconditional-love/vaughts-views/larryvaught/
- https://www.kentucky.com/sports/high-school/article277378728.html
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://app.pictory.ai/
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