Jeff Thorne RIP

[Prince-of-Pilfer]

It's with a heavy heart that I pass along the news that former North Central College National Championship Head Coach and HOFer, Eastern Illinois QB and Wheaton Central HS HOFer and legend Jeff Thorne has passed away at the age of 53. For those that knew him he was a friend, a leader, a mentor, an innovator, an incredible son, brother, father and husband. He's been battling for the past year and never gave up the fight. Taken from us way to early, his memory will live on through his family, friends and players. RIP JT.

#ChaseTheLion
#RefuseToLose

 

[Colin2299]

Terrible news. So sorry to hear this.

 

[Still Missing34]

That's terrible. When my son was being recruited, NCC was one of the first places we visited. Jeff gave a speech that still resonates with me.

Very sorry to hear this. Prayers to the Thorne family and those he touched.

 

[ClownBaby]

Got a lot of texts about this yesterday, he made positive impact and will be missed by many.

 

[McCaravan]

May he rest peacefully. There isn't a fan of HS football in IL who doesn't know of and respect the Thorne family name.

 

[Colin2299]

Jeff's speech into the NC athletic HOF. It is outstanding.

Jeff Thorne HOF Speech

starts at 16:55

Well done good and faithful servant.

 

[Edgytim]

Jeff was just always very welcoming to me for many years and always was fun to get caught up with him every summer at the NCC camps...saw him for a few minutes this past summer and looked pretty good at the time despite his battle. Sad day for sure.

 

[4Afan]

North Central Mourns Loss of Former Football Coach Jeff Thorne - North Central College Athletics

Former North Central football coach and Hall of Famer Jeff Thorne passed away Tuesday night after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. Thorne served on the Cardinal

northcentralcardinals.com

 

[Silver Rain]

He had a great run at WWS, winning it all in '92, '95, '96, and '98.

 

[McCaravan]

He had a great run at WWS, winning it all in '92, '95, '96, and '98.

That was his Father, John.

 

[CCHS-Fan]

Went to EIU with him. Had him in some classes and played many pick-up BB games with he and his football teammates.

He was a good athlete, QB, and a good person.

God speed.

 

[KingMJ]

horrible news. one of the best competitors I ever faced. still kinda in shock