MONROE, Ga. — Former high school football coaching legend T. McFerrin, who led Jefferson to its only state title in 2012, passed away on Tuesday. He was 83.
McFerrin coached for 34 seasons in Georgia and 38 seasons overall. He retired as the ninth-winningest coach in Georgia history (317-84-4). He also won a state title in 1995 with Elbert County (Class 2A). The 1995 title is the Blue Devils only title as well.
McFerrin coached the Dragons from 2009 to 2012 but almost wasn’t around for that final season after announcing his retirement following the 2011 season. He was asked to come back one final year.
"I couldn't have had a better retirement gift," McFerrin told AccessWDUN at the time. "The superintendent (Dr. John Jackson) and the principal (Dr. Kevin Smith) asked me to come back for this season, and I sure am happy I did. I'm so proud of these guys and so proud for Jefferson. These guys went down in the history books."
It’s still the only title for Jefferson, who played for the title in 2020 and last year (2024) but was not able to come away with the title either time.
Former Flowery Branch and Jefferson coach Ben Hall, who was the offensive coordinator on that 2012 team, summed up his former boss in one sentence:
“Coach T was a legend that always saw the good in people,” Hall said. “He had the ability to mold a team of players and coaches and have them work together and get the most from their abilities.
“He will be remembered by most for his coaching accomplishments; his players and coaches will remember him for the impact he had on their lives. Each is a better person because of his influence.”
McFerrin began his coaching career in 1968 at Lithonia and also coached at Peachtree, Southwest Whitfield, Tucker, Elbert County and South Gwinnett.
