University of South Carolina-Aiken issued the following announcement on March 11.
Aiken, SC (03/12/2022) — The University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) is deeply saddened by the recent passing of a good friend and loyal supporter, John Wade Abshire or "Coach," as he was affectionately known throughout the community.
Coach Abshire and his wife, Patty, have long been advocates of the university. Not only is "Spirit," the bronze horse statue in front of the Penland Building, a sign of their affection for USC Aiken, but the Abshires also endowed a fund for the School of Nursing. The adult health simulation lab in the School of Nursing building is named in his and Patty's honor.
Coach, along with Patty, was regularly seen around campus visiting with faculty and students and will be sadly missed.
Original source can be found here.
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