Western Carolina University assistant football coach dies from COVID-19
Posted August 22, 2021 2:56 p.m. EDT
Updated August 22, 2021 4:09 p.m. EDT
Cullowhee, N.C. — The assistant coach of the Western Carolina University football team died from coronavirus on Wednesday.
John Peacock died at his home in Sylva, the university announced on Saturday. ESPN reports he was 32-years-old.
"Known by his colleagues and student athletes as a selfless, hard worker, who was always upbeat and constantly humming or singing, Coach Peacock will sorely be missed," a statement from Western Carolina Athletics said.
Erika Alexander, Peacock's fiancee, said that he tested positive for the virus last Saturday, and doctors told him his oxygen levels were low on Sunday.
"Those of you who knew him knew he was stubborn as hell, and hated the doctor, so he didn't want to go to the hospital," she wrote on Facebook.
WCNC reports the pair were planning to get married next February.
"Go get the vaccine and wear your mask," she said.