Hundreds Attend Funeral For Former Uofl Coach Denny Crum
In a heartfelt tribute that lasted nearly 90 minutes, 667 people gathered at Southeast Christian Church to honor the late coach, Denny Crum. Known for his calm demeanor under pressure and his humble nature, Crum left an indelible mark on the lives of those he coached and mentored. As I listened to the stories shared during the service, one theme stood out: the enduring impact of Denny Crum's coaching philosophy, even in the next life.
As speaker after speaker took the stage, they painted a vivid picture of Denny Crum's coaching prowess. His ability to inspire and motivate his players was legendary. One could not simply describe him with a single line; he was a man with a million one-liners in practice. People couldn't help but stop and think when Coach Crum spoke.
But Denny Crum was more than just a coach. He was a husband, a father, and a friend. Annette, his best friend and confidant, shared their journey together. Through thick and thin, they traveled the world side by side. Whether they were playing golf or fishing or simply enjoying each other's company, Denny always found a way to coach Annette through life.
Denny Crum's love for his family shone as brightly as his love for basketball. He adored his wife Susan and always introduced her as "my bride." Their bond was unbreakable, and Susan admitted that all Denny wanted was to make her happy—and he succeeded in doing so.
Denny Crum's impact extended far beyond the basketball court. His influence cast a shadow over the entire community that revered him as a legend. Yet, despite his status, those who worked with him knew that he never saw himself as above them. He was a team player, always working alongside his colleagues rather than commanding from above.
As the visitors poured out of the church, one thing became clear: Denny Crum's legacy would live on. In a touching anecdote shared by a close friend, it was imagined that Coach Crum had arrived at the pearly gates of heaven. Saint Peter greeted him and said, "Coach, we've been waiting for you." With a smile, Coach Crum replied