Lou Holtz Cause Of Death: What We Know
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Lou Holtz, the legendary college football coach and analyst, known for his time at Notre Dame and on ESPN, has died. He was 89 years old.
Holtz’s family and the Notre Dame football program officially confirmed the news on Wednesday afternoon, shortly before 5 p.m. E.T. on Wednesday. He died in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by family.
“Born January 6, 1937, in Follansbee, West Virginia, Holtz rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected figures in college athletics. Over a remarkable five‑decade career, he led college programs at William & Mary, NC State, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame, and South Carolina. He transformed every team he inherited and captured the 1988 National Championship with the Fighting Irish. Holtz was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Beth, with whom he shared a life grounded in faith, devotion, and service,” his family announced.
“Holtz is remembered for his enduring values of faith, family, service, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. His influence extended far beyond the football field through the Holtz Charitable Foundation and the many players, colleagues, and communities shaped by his leadership. He is survived by his four children, nine grandchildren, and two great‑grandchildren. Funeral arrangements, including a Mass of Christian Burial at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the University of Notre Dame, will be announced as details are finalized.”
What we know about Lou Holtz’s cause of death
Holtz, who played college football at Kent State, coached from 1960 until 2004. He went 249–132–7 at the college level and won a national championship in 1988.
In late January, Holtz entered hospice care.
ABC in Indiana confirmed the news.
“A source close to the family confirmed with ABC57 that Notre Dame legend, Lou Holtz, has reportedly entered into hospice care at the age of 89,” the outlet reported.
Holtz had reportedly been battling a serious illness for a while. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014 and throat cancer back in 1997. His wife, Beth, passed away in 2020, after a long battle with throat cancer.
Our thoughts continue to be with Lou Holtz’s friends and family members during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Mar 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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