Sonny Lewis Obituary, Death – Beloved Owens Community College Volleyball Coach Dies at 77
Harold “Sonny” Lewis, the longtime retired volleyball coach at Owens Community College, passed away on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the age of 77. His death is a significant loss to the college, former student-athletes, fellow coaches, and the Northwest Ohio volleyball community, where he spent years making a lasting contribution to the sport.
Owens Community College announced his passing on November 12, paying tribute to a coach whose influence extended beyond the volleyball court. Throughout his career, Lewis played an important role in the college’s athletics program, guiding student-athletes through their time as members of the team and helping shape their college experiences.
For Sonny, coaching involved more than preparing players for matches and competitions. He became part of the lives of the athletes he guided, offering direction and encouragement during important years of their personal and academic development. The relationships he built with players and colleagues became an important part of his legacy.
His contribution to Owens Community College volleyball reached beyond individual games, seasons, and results. Through his years of service, he helped shape the program and became a respected figure in Northwest Ohio’s volleyball community.
Following news of his death, former players, colleagues, and members of the Owens community are reflecting on the time they shared with him. The lessons he passed on, the experiences he helped create, and the memories formed throughout his coaching career will remain meaningful to those who knew him.
Harold “Sonny” Lewis will be remembered for his dedication to volleyball and the lasting influence he had on the student-athletes he coached. His legacy will continue through the players he mentored and the community he helped build.
Heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, former players, colleagues, and everyone mourning his passing.