Memorial services held for John Wade "Coach" Abshire

On March 19, funeral services were held for well-known USC Aiken supporter John Wade Abshire, who passed away at 87 years old March 9.

Better known as “Coach,” Abshire “loved life and took advantage of every day to learn, to laugh, to meet new best friends, to love and to look ahead,” according to his obituary. He was known as someone who always looked at the positive side of things.

USC Aiken’s adult health simulation lab is named after Abshire and his wife, Patty, as they both gave generous donations to the USC Aiken nursing program. The horse statue inside the fountain at the main entrance of the campus was also donated by the couple.

Abshire was a frequent attendant of sports events and would get to know the students, faculty and staff. He enjoyed occasionally sitting in on classes. According to family and friends, he was always introducing himself to new people and making connections.

Aside from the time he spent supporting USC Aiken, he also enjoyed spending time with his three grandsons and watching them play sports at their own schools. He donated money to their respective high schools and colleges and attended many of their sports games and practices.

Funeral services were held Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. John’s United Methodist Church. A live stream of the service was available on Sunday on the church’s Facebook page and website.