The basketball fraternity in Georgia is grieving the demise of a revered coach, David Boyd, who recently passed away on St. Simons Island. Serving as the head coach of Milton High School, Boyd made an unforgettable impact on the basketball scene in the state.
With a coaching tenure that spanned several decades and a remarkable track record of achievements, Boyd’s influence extends well beyond the basketball courts where he guided his teams.
David Boyd Cause of death
David Boyd, aged 69, passed away peacefully in his residence at St. Simons Island on Monday as a result of heart failure caused by his enduring battle with Type 1 diabetes. Surviving him are his beloved wife, Genise, his brother Cal, and his four children, Charisse, Geoff, Christina, and Wesley.
Who was Coach David Boyd?
Boyd, the firstborn among Robert and Renza Boyd’s three sons, was raised in Smyrna and actively participated in basketball and football during his time at Campbell High School in Smyrna. During his tenure at Georgia State University from 1972-74, Boyd received valuable guidance from coach Jack Waters, who motivated him to embark on a path as a coach and educator.
Coach David Boyd’s career
He assumed the position of head coach at Campbell and led the Panthers to the state championship game in 1981, where they unfortunately lost to Baldwin High. However, with the majority of the players returning the following year, Campbell made a triumphant comeback and secured the championship in 1982 by defeating Cherokee in the state final.
Among the players on that team was his younger brother Cal, who, despite being twelve years his junior, started as a freshman and went on to set records at Wake Forest. Cal eventually joined his brother as a coach and achieved two state championships at Mount Bethel.
The unique dynamic of coaching brothers is not commonly heard of, as mentioned by Cal Boyd. He recalls the dilemma of addressing his brother, opting not to use “Coach Boyd” or “David.” Instead, he settled for simply calling him “Coach,” and they made it work.
In 1996, Boyd made a move to Tucker High School, taking over from his former GSU coach Waters. Remarkably, in his sole season there, he led the team to a state championship victory.
Boyd then accepted the position at Berkmar High School in Lilburn, where they finished as runners-up to the formidable Savannah team in 1998. However, the Patriots made a strong comeback in 2000 and 2001, securing back-to-back championships.
His tenure at Milton High School proved to be even more successful. During his time there, Boyd guided the Eagles to the championship game on four occasions, resulting in two titles in 2010 and 2012.
The 2012 team not only clinched two national tournaments but also saw five players earn Division I basketball scholarships. Notably, Charles Mann Jr., who went on to play four seasons at Georgia and currently serves on the staff as director of player personnel, was among those players.
Mann expresses his deep gratitude and appreciation for Boyd’s impact on his life, both as a player and as a person. He credits Boyd for shaping him into the individual he is today and considers him the best coach in GHSA history, as well as an exceptional human being.
However, Boyd’s time at Milton High School came to an end after the 2012 season. The school self-reported “undue influence” due to the influx of talented transfers into the program. Despite maintaining his innocence, Boyd resigned when informed that he could no longer coach the teams.
