Tulane coach Jon Sumrall is mourning the death of his father, who passed away a day before the Green Wave make their College Football Playoff debut.
George Sumrall died peacefully in his sleep Thursday night following lengthy health issues. He was 77. Sumrall shared the news Friday in a message posted to social media, reflecting on the influence his father had on his life and career.
“God gave us more time with my dad than we thought we would get,” Sumrall wrote. “Dad was a fighter. I learned so much from him … being a man of faith, grit, hard work, attitude, service and more.”
Love you always Dad! Pic.twitter.com/U5s2fR6KCl
— Jon Sumrall (@CoachJonSumrall) December 19, 2025
Sumrall noted that his father was well enough to attend Tulane’s 34-21 victory over North Texas in the American Athletic Conference championship game earlier this month. He was also around to watch his son being hired at Florida.
“He was always there for me and I know he will be watching,” Sumrall wrote.
Tulane (11-2) travels to face Ole Miss (11-1) on Saturday in Oxford, Mississippi. The winner will advance to face SEC champion Georgia in the Sugar Bowl.
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