Walker would later better his mile time in 1982, with his New Zealand record standing until February, when Sam Ruthe ran 3m 48.88s at the Boston University John Thomas Terrier Classic.
Other athletes Jelley coached included 1966 Commonwealth Games mile bronze medallist Ian Studd, Olympians Neville Scott, Chrissie Pfitzinger and Robbie Johnston, and 1990 Commonwealth Games 10,000m bronze medallist Barbara Moore. He also coached long-distance runners Rod Dixon and Dick Quax.
Jelley retired from coaching in 2000, but aged 93 he guided Hamish Carson to the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Craig Kirkwood, who coaches Ruthe among other athletes, told the Herald that Jelley had a huge influence on his own coaching career.
“Growing up as a young fella watching John Walker, his star pupil, rip around the track and be an icon and idol for all us young fellas was special,” Kirkwood said.
“He’s had an incredible career and just an absolute legacy he’s left for the sport, and we’re super grateful that he was part of our history.
“It’d be nice for him to be held in higher regard. But those in the community who have met him and seen what he’s done hold him in that regard.
“It’s special that he’s been part of the sport and he’s had an incredible career. To make it to 104 and still have his mind intact, it’s sad, but 104’s an awesome lifespan.“
Born Albert Archibald Jelley in Dunedin on August 13, 1922, he was the second eldest of five children and grew up in a household passionate about cricket. His father, Albie Jelley, was a first-class cricket umpire.
Sir John Walker (left) is clocked by his coach Arch Jelley during a training run. Photo / Photosport
Jelley enjoyed some success on the track before his athletics ambitions were put on hold during World War II, when he served in the Navy.
After the war, he returned to New Zealand to study at Dunedin Teachers’ College and the University of Otago, while also re-engaging with running.
In January 1957, he moved north to Auckland to continue his teaching career. He later became principal of Sunnybrae Normal School on the North Shore, a position he held for more than 20 years.
He continued running in Auckland, but it was his move to Ōwairaka Harriers – the home club of coaching legend Arthur Lydiard – that kick-started his athletics coaching career.
He was New Zealand team coach at the 1976 and 1984 Olympics and team manager at the inaugural World Championships in 1983. He spent 15 years as a national selector and served as president of Athletics NZ.
Arch Jelley, former coach of middle-distance running legend Sir John Walker, competes at Carlton Bowling Club. Photo / Greg Bowker
After retiring again, Jelley enjoyed lawn bowls and playing bridge.
Athletics New Zealand extended its condolences to Jelley’s wife Jean, his family and friends.
Details of a memorial service will be announced in due course.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.