Obituary for Coach Jim LeVine
James E. “Jim” LeVine, 87, passed away January 3, 2021, at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC. A native of Buncombe County, Jim was known as “Coach” to everyone. He was not only a great coach, but a mentor, teacher, instructor, friend, and father figure for everyone that played under him as well as everyone that had the opportunity to meet him.
Jim was a superb athlete growing up, being named All-State in football in Florida and Mr. Miami Beach twice. Jim was also asked to try out for the Pittsburg Pirates professional baseball team at 16 years old as a pitcher. He transferred to Black Mountain his senior year becoming WNC Back of the Year, All- State, and getting a scholarship to play football at Duke University. After an army tour and getting his teaching degree at Western Carolina, he taught and coached at Lee Edwards High School for a short stint before coming to Owen High School as a coach and Drivers Ed teacher. Promoted to Head Football Coach in the early 70’s, he won a conference championship and was selected WNC Coach of the Year. He never had a losing season. During this time, he accepted the additional position of Owen High Athletic Director. Along with football, Jim coached wrestling, track, swimming, golf and baseball. Jim was always a true friend with an engaging personality and someone who truly made a difference in other people’s lives.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Anne Marie; his two sons, Marc and Brad; and daughter, Lisa; grandson, Josh; sisters, Marion LeMay and Charlotte Ray; and nephews, Jason LeMay and Justin Ripkin.
A private ceremony will be held for the family at St. James Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to any animal sanctuary of your choosing.
A candlelight walk will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 6:00pm leaving Harwood Home for Funerals & Cremation Services going to the LeVine residence, 204 New Bern Avenue, Black Mountain, NC 28711.
Jim was a superb athlete growing up, being named All-State in football in Florida and Mr. Miami Beach twice. Jim was also asked to try out for the Pittsburg Pirates professional baseball team at 16 years old as a pitcher. He transferred to Black Mountain his senior year becoming WNC Back of the Year, All- State, and getting a scholarship to play football at Duke University. After an army tour and getting his teaching degree at Western Carolina, he taught and coached at Lee Edwards High School for a short stint before coming to Owen High School as a coach and Drivers Ed teacher. Promoted to Head Football Coach in the early 70’s, he won a conference championship and was selected WNC Coach of the Year. He never had a losing season. During this time, he accepted the additional position of Owen High Athletic Director. Along with football, Jim coached wrestling, track, swimming, golf and baseball. Jim was always a true friend with an engaging personality and someone who truly made a difference in other people’s lives.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Anne Marie; his two sons, Marc and Brad; and daughter, Lisa; grandson, Josh; sisters, Marion LeMay and Charlotte Ray; and nephews, Jason LeMay and Justin Ripkin.
A private ceremony will be held for the family at St. James Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to any animal sanctuary of your choosing.
A candlelight walk will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 6:00pm leaving Harwood Home for Funerals & Cremation Services going to the LeVine residence, 204 New Bern Avenue, Black Mountain, NC 28711.