J. Ross Kershey

Ross Kershey passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at Sunrise of Exton with his son Scott at his side.

Mr. Kershey was born on May 11, 1933 in Wendell, WV. His parents were John and Donice Kershey. He grew up in Connellsville, PA. He graduated from Dunbar Township High in 1950 and he graduated from Temple University in 1955. During his senior year, he played on the basketball team at Temple.

He started his teaching and coaching career at Coatesville High in September of 1956. He taught American History for the next 42 years, retiring in June of 1998. He continued teaching senior citizen programs, first at Widener University and then at Immaculata University until 2020, stopping at the age of 87.

He was the varsity basketball coach at Coatesville for 22 years. His overall record was 455 wins and 125 losses. His teams won 12 Ches-Mont Titles and one District 1 Title. He was the head Track coach for 14 years. His team’s dual meet record was 104 wins and 1 loss. His teams won 12 Ches-Mont Titles, two District 1 Titles and one State Championship in 1974. He was inducted into nine different Halls of Fame in the state of Pennsylvania for his coaching accomplishments.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Sally, in 2016. They traveled the world together, visiting 26 countries on four continents. He is survived by his son, M. Scott Kershey; and his fiancée, Dee Rogevich.

At Mr. Kershey’s specific request, there will be no viewing and no services. A remembrance of his life will be held at a date and location still to be determined. Mr. Kershey requested that those people wishing to could make a donation in his name to: West Chester University Foundation/Kershey Scholarship, 202 Carter Drive, West Chester, PA 19382.