{"id":285522,"date":"2026-04-25T12:57:27","date_gmt":"2026-04-25T12:57:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/285522\/"},"modified":"2026-04-25T12:57:27","modified_gmt":"2026-04-25T12:57:27","slug":"beloved-bullard-teacher-and-coach-steve-cox-remembered","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/285522\/","title":{"rendered":"Beloved Bullard teacher and coach Steve Cox remembered"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Steve<\/p>\n

Steve Cox is seen in an undated photo at a Bullard High football game. Cox died on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. He was 58.<\/p>\n

BRANDON GILBERT<\/p>\n

When Steve Cox\u2019s name came up this week, people had nothing but kind words to say about the longtime teacher and coach.<\/p>\n

Cox died unexpectedly Wednesday, sending shockwaves through the Fresno-area coaching community. He was 58.<\/p>\n

A fixture at Bullard High School since 1995, Cox taught ceramics and coached wrestling and football in various roles in a career spanning four decades. Whether in the classroom or on the field, he was known for his dedication, preparation and willingness to help others.<\/p>\n

Bullard principal Armen Torigian shared the news with families in a message:<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is with great sadness that I share the news that one of our beloved staff members, Mr. Steve Cox, passed away unexpectedly. …<\/p>\n

\u201cWe ask that you keep Mr. Cox\u2019s family and loved ones in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. We will always remember \u2018Coach Cox\u2019 for his dedication to students, his passion for the arts and ceramics, and the countless hours he devoted to coaching football and wrestling. His impact is immeasurable and will not be forgotten.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cox remained active in the Fresno community throughout his career \u2014 teaching, coaching wrestling, and assisting with football as a linebackers coach. He was especially known for mentoring players and fellow coaches.<\/p>\n

Former Bullard football coach Don Arax reflected on Facebook about Cox\u2019s influence:<\/p>\n

\u201cSteve was a professional,\u201d Arax wrote. \u201cWe had a run of great linebacking groups, and that didn\u2019t happen by accident. He worked with both JV and varsity players \u2014 something many coaches avoided \u2014 because he was always thinking ahead. He was the most prepared coach on the field. His practice plans were detailed, never improvised. Even after knee surgery, he brought intensity every day. I will miss him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"Steve Steve Cox is seen in an undated photo at a Bullard High football game. Cox died on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. He was 58. BRANDON GILBERT <\/p>\n

Garza High football coach Yosef Fares, who both played for and coached alongside Cox, said the news was difficult to comprehend.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was shocked,\u201d Fares said. \u201cSteve was healthy, active, always in shape. He took care of himself. It\u2019s hard to believe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bullard athletic director Brandon Gilbert, who knew Cox for more than 25 years, described him as a perfectionist who left a lasting impression on students.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve never met a kid who didn\u2019t love playing for him,\u201d Gilbert said. \u201cEven when he wasn\u2019t actively coaching, he stayed involved \u2014 showing up to meets, supporting the program. I can\u2019t say enough about him. He\u2019s going to be missed.\u201d<\/p>\n

In the hours following the news, many took to social media to express condolences and share memories. One mourner called him \u201can amazing coach,\u201d while another remembered him as \u201ca good man\u201d who cared deeply about others.<\/p>\n

This story was originally published April 24, 2026 at 10:45 AM.<\/p>\n

Related Stories from Fresno Bee<\/p>\n


\n \"Profile
\n <\/a><\/p>\n

Anthony Galaviz<\/a><\/p>\n

The Fresno Bee<\/p>\n

Anthony Galaviz writes about sports for The Fresno Bee. He covers the Las Vegas Raiders, high schools, boxing, MMA and junior colleges. He\u2019s been with The Bee since 1997 and attended Fresno City College before graduating from Fresno State with a major in journalism and a minor in criminology.
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