Lou Holtz cause of death: What we know about the ex-football coach

Lou Holtz, the legendary former football coach who won a national title at Notre Dame in 1988, died on Wednesday at 89 years old.

In a statement, the Holtz family confirmed the ex-coach and TV personality's death, adding that a memorial service would be held at the University of Notre Dame at an unspecified date.

Back in January, the Holtz family announced that Lou would enter hospice care as they turned their attention to his comfort and overall wellbeing. But the family went the next month without providing much of an update on his condition. Holtz had suffered injuries in a car crash last year.

That latest update came on Wednesday when the family announced Lou's passing.

Louis Leo “Lou” Holtz, legendary college football coach, Hall of Famer, bestselling author, and one of America’s most influential motivational voices, has passed away at the age of 89 in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by family. Born January 6, 1937, in Follansbee, West Virginia,…

— Lou Holtz (@CoachLouHoltz88) March 4, 2026

The statement read, in full:

Louis Leo “Lou” Holtz, legendary college football coach, Hall of Famer, bestselling author, and one of America’s most influential motivational voices, has passed away at the age of 89 in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by family. Born January 6, 1937, in Follansbee, West Virginia, Holtz rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected figures in college athletics. Over a remarkable five‑decade career, he led college programs at William & Mary, NC State, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame, and South Carolina.  He transformed every team he inherited and captured the 1988 National Championship with the Fighting Irish. Holtz was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Beth, with whom he shared a life grounded in faith, devotion, and service.

Holtz is remembered for his enduring values of faith, family, service, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. His influence extended far beyond the football field through the Holtz Charitable Foundation and the many players, colleagues, and communities shaped by his leadership. He is survived by his four children, nine grandchildren, and two great‑grandchildren. Funeral arrangements, including a Mass of Christian Burial at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the University of Notre Dame, will be announced as details are finalized.

The Holtz Family

You can read his full obituary here from USA TODAY Sports.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Lou Holtz cause of death: What we know about the ex-football coach