Community Corner

Coach Jay Continues to Touch Lives

The Kennesaw Charter teacher who died Friday after being struck by a vehicle has helped others through organ donation.

In life, Jay Ingram touched many lives in the Kennesaw community as a youth soccer coach, a physical education teacher at Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy, and a loving husband and father of two.

In death, he continues to help others through the gift of organ donation.

Ingram, 32, was  Thursday morning while jogging on North Booth Road in Kennesaw. due to complications from a severe traumatic brain injury.

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Ingram donated all his organs, according to an update posted on Facebook Saturday morning by Ingram's wife, Corinne:

His heart is going to a fifty year old, his lungs to a 27 year old, a kidney and liver to a patient with liver failure, a kidney and pancreas to a patient with diabetes/kidney failure. I pray that everything goes well for these recipients and amazed that even in death Jay is saving lives. God you are amazing.

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Words of prayer have flooded in for Ingram and his family since news of the accident. Community members from Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy, and Ingram's soccer club were just some of the people who gathered to pray for his recovery Friday morning on Kennesaw Charter's school field—and later—to remember his legacy during a candlelight vigil held less than three hours after he died.

Ingram's death comes as a blow to the Kennesaw Charter community a mere two months before the school is Many community members have lamented that "Coach Jay" won't be able to enjoy his new gym.

Hundreds of comments on Facebook, and other sites begin to piece together a portrait of a man loved by many in his community.

Known to many simply as "Coach," Ingram is remembered for his assorted mohawks, costumes and Crocs. Students recount his hula hoop-balancing act, his famous "Body Part" song and his field day pranks.

But mostly, he is remembered for his kind and giving spirit.

I went to KCS for second and third grade. Coach always made everything more fun. I will miss him dearly and he will always be in my heart. He was a wonderful man and we will keep him in our hearts. They will never find another coach like him. He was the best coach you could have. I love you coach.

—Madison

Jay was my soccer coach for 3 years. He is my inspiration he will always be there even though he is not. The rest of my life I will be living up to his (standards) for me. Jay I know you can't see this but thank you so much you are a great preson.

—Melissa

Coach - you will be truly be missed. You were such a ray of sunshine when you would greet us at carpool and send us on our way in the afternoons. I will never forget our special Leprechaun on St. Patrick Day - you were our lucky charm. You brought such positive energy to my children as well as other students and soccer players. Your legacy for your own children is stellar!

—Vicki

My family is devastated by the passing of Coach Ingram. As an active parent at KCSMA, when my daughters attended the school, I personally witnessed the amazing caliber of a man Jay was. His passion for the wellbeing of the students, staff and parents, in addition to his love of life was contagious. His loving and animated presence will for ever be missed. Thanks you for the great laughs Coach. RIP!

—The Destins

The last time I saw him, he was doing what he always did. Helping those in need. Between changing flat tires, jump starting cars, getting keys out of the car (we did that twice), getting partners in Ed for the circus, bringing fifth grade his iPod when the DJ never showed at the last minute, moving tables and chairs that he was not asked to (but knew it needed to be done), brightening anyone's day that needed it, or countless other selfless deeds, Jay IS the most selfless person I know. He will NEVER be gone!!

—Jason

Every day Avery had PE, my first question to her would be, "What crazy thing did Coach do today???" Whether it was balancing hula hoops or stacking cups, Avery always laughed as she told me. She thought he was the funniest thing! I'm so glad she'll have these happy memories of him. She's going to miss him a lot!

—Sara

Coach Jay we love and we will miss you, but God loves you more. R.I.P you truly touch many hearts.

—Catherine

There will be two visitations on Monday, Jan. 30. The first will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., and the second will be from 6 to 9 p.m. The viewing will be held at , located at 2950 North Cobb Pkwy in Kennesaw (770-422-7299).

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31, at located at 3450 Stilesboro Road in Kennesaw (770-425-6726). Due to the expected turn out, the service on Tuesday will be held outside.

Attendees are asked to keep the dress casual, and to wear yellow in honor of Coach Jay.

Community members have established a contribution account for Coach Jay’s family. One hundred percent of the donations go directly to Jay’s wife Corinne and their two children.

Donations can be made at any Bank of America location. When making a donation, please reference the Jay Ingram Family Benefit Contribution Account.

Please leave your words of remembrance in our comments section. You can also share your memories by clicking the "Upload Photos and Videos" link.


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