Donald “Coach” Lee Scalf
January 13, 1935 ~ March 7, 2017
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ROCKY MOUNT - Donald Lee Scalf, age 82, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2017. Born in Montgomery, AL on January 13, 1935, he was the fourth child of Rev. John Henry Scalf and Mary Cameron Scalf.
Don grew up in Winston-Salem and then the family moved to High Point where his father was the minister of English Street Baptist Church. Don graduated from High Point High School in 1952. In high school he exceled at basketball and track. He went to Wake Forest University and graduated in 1957. While at Wake Forest he played basketball and was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He obtained his Masters Degree in Physical Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1959. After getting his Masters he coached girls basketball and taught at Ragsdale High School in Jamestown, NC. He moved to Rocky Mount in 1962 to teach physical education and coach mens basketball at NC Wesleyan College until 1998 when he retired.
In 1994 Don was inducted into the NC Wesleyan College Athletic Hall of Fame and into the USA South Conference Hall of Fame in 2010. Also during his tenure at Wesleyan the soccer field was named for him and in 2006 a group of his former basketball players had the basketball court named after him. He was a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Society. Don retired as Professor Emeritus of NC Wesleyan College.
For 18 years Don managed the Westridge Swim Club. During that time he taught hundreds of children to swim. He was well loved by all involved.
Don married JoAnne Hodgin in 1957 and they had two children and two grandchildren. He was a member of Lakeside Baptist Church from 1963 until his death. He sang in the choir for 30 years and served on the music committee.
Don was predeceased by his parents, brother, John and sister, Doris. He is survived by JoAnne, his wife of 59 years; daughter Kay; son Ken and wife, Sue; and grandchildren, Kelly and Andrew. His is also survived by his brother Bob.
A Celebration of Coach Scalfs Life will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Lakeside Baptist Church, 1501 Sunset Avenue, Rocky Mount, with Dr. Jody Wright officiating. Visitation will follow service in the Sugg Foyer of the Kinchloe Building.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lakeside Baptist Church, 1501 Sunset Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804; or Don Scalf Scholarship Fund at NC Wesleyan College, 3400 N. Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, NC 27804.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
Visitation
Lakeside Baptist Church Sugg Foyer of the Kincheloe Building
1501 Sunset Avemue
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Saturday 3/11
Service
Lakeside Baptist Church
1501 Sunset Avenue
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
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Saturday 3/11, 11:00 am
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Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
My heart is heavy with sadness at the news of Don’s passing. Praying for peace & comfort to all of you in the difficult days ahead. He was a special man & friend to many. My years at Wesleyan were greatly enhanced by knowing & working with him. Always a smile when I saw him & this continued after we left Wesleyan. Rest In Peace Coach…
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
I have such fond memories of Coach Scalf during my years at Wesleyan. His office door was always opened and he welcomed students in to encourage them, lead them, and help them in anyway needed. Coach Scalf invited me to church with him and introduced me to our Savior Jesus Christ. He was my teacher but he was also my friend and my brother in Christ. His life touched many people, probably more than you will ever know! God used his life in many ways. I am thankful that I was a part of his life for a season. I will be praying for your family! May the hope of an eternal future bring you comfort and peace during the days and years ahead. Amy (Tolley) Moore
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Mr. Scalf was such a prince of a fellow and always made you smile. We will miss him. Our prayers go out to his sweet family.
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Will always remember Don with fondness and the love he had for people. Rest in peace and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
thank you for watching over us at westridge -we were truly blessed and loved by all
Coach Scalf was my advisor while I attended Wesleyan. I had a great honor to be selected as a All American Soccer Lad in 1988, I went over to coaches small office my sanctuary because I thought I did not deserve the recognition, he told me he was very proud of me and to this day remains on of the best days of my life. Thanks Coach
Coach Scalf was so kind to me at Wesleyan (Class of ’81). I would pop into his office sometimes when I was working at the gym and get him to talk to me about playing basketball for Bones McKinney at Wake Forest. He was such a kind and special man.
There are three men other than my Dad that made an impact on my life as an outstanding roll model. This is one of them. He talked me into taken Jr. then Sr. life saving class so I could be a life guard at Westridge Swim Club. Then during the following winter he urged me to take the WSI class at the YMCA so I could teach lifesaving courses at Westridge. I was only 16 and it was the best summer job I ever had for three years. I learned a lot in those years with Coach Scalf. Thank you Coach… Floyd Hunt
Coach, sweet coach!! I’ll never ever forget you! We saw you in October at the induction ceremony for a couple soccer players! What a joy that was! Your influence continues to live on in my life. I had many classes with you as a Physical Education major! One day I skipped one of your classes… I didn’t do that often because I loved your classes! Here’s a moment I’ll use to describe your character… when you saw me, right after your class, just walking on the lawn at Wesleyan… you smiled, pointed at me and gave me the I see you eyes- nothing more, never mentioned it again. I can draw so many lessons from that very moment. You treated people with patience, kindness, humor, grace, positivity and encouragement! I draw on these things daily as I encounter others… more than any book knowledge, this can be carried and applied for years. Thank you for ALL you thought me. Until I see you again, in your perfect state, we’ll all miss your influence dearly! God’s grace to your family- I hope you know the broad influence Coach had on so many!! I love you, Coach!! -Kari Barrios
When I arrived at N.C. Wesleyan in September, 1982 one of the first people I met was Don Scalf. Over the course of the next 16 years Don became my friend, my confidant, my mentor but, most importantly, my example of what a coach and teacher looks like. If I was to name one person who influenced me the most, guided me the most and taught me the most it would be Coach Scalf. Coach was a great listener, funny, kind, empathetic, loving and man did he care for his students. He really cared and it showed daily. Little did I know how much I was being influenced every day I walked into Everett Gymnasium. We eventually traveled to NCAA Conventions and Dixie Conference meetings together. One of my fondest memories was Don sliding down this long bannister at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville. I have a picture of him with both hands in the air going down this steep bannister. Don loved to have fun! Cheryl and I traveling with he and JoAnn have always been some of our fondest memories Don was one of best men I will ever know.. I thank the Lord daily that he and Moe Bauer were waiting on me when I arrived at Wesleyan at age 26. Angels on earth and now both angels in heaven. Cheryl and I offer our most sincere condolences to JoAnn, Ken and Kay. Mike and Cheryl Fox
Coach Scalf was a delight to be around! We were blessed to have had classes with him at North Carolina Wesleyan College! He always took time to catch up with us when we visited the campus after we graduated. We were blessed to have known him! Condolences to his family, we know they will miss himheart
Mr. Scalf was always a smiling face and welcoming presence at Westridge pool. I am sure many families grew up at Westridge and have wonderful memories of Don Scalf. Prayers to Mrs. Scalf, Ken, Kay and family.
Carla and I send our sincere condolences to JoAnne and the Scalf family. I knew Don as a loyal supporter of Wesleyan and its students, as a friend, and as a family man. But most of all I knew Don as a gentleman. When I think back through the years of those people who made a difference and inspired me, Don was one of the best. Godspeed Coach. You were an important part of many lives. Ian Newbould, President NCWC 2001-2008
Don Scalf was a key figure in my life during my time at NCWC 1969-73. He, along with Dr. Raymond Mo Bauer and Dr. Sim Wilde, were my trilogy of influence. RIP Coach. M. Scott Polley Atlanta, GA
I had the honor of knowing this kind man while I attended NCWC from 65-69; Don became a friend and confidant. So many days, I spent playing ping-pong with Don, and Moe Bauer along with others. I moved back to Lake Gaston in 2000 and had the opportunity to be in Don’s company several times over the last few years and found him to be just as wonderful a person as I had remembered. My deepest sympathy to his family. Rest in peace my friend. Lynn Alim
He was always there for me! Never failed to stop and talk whenever he saw me. Just a great man. Hw will be missed.
I will never forget that infectious smile! He was one of those people that always had a kind word, and everyone that I spoke of him only shared fond memories. He loved supporting Wesleyan students. He made it a point to attend the scholarship luncheons so he could meet the recipients. He will be missed at the our table, but we know he has a better feast before him now. R.I.P. Coach Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Lit a candle in memory of Donald Coach Lee Scalf
Coach Scalf was my instructor for all of my physical education classes at Wesleyan College. I took bowling, skeet and sailing classes as well as a fundamentals class. We took sailing class down at Camp Don Lee in New Bern on the Trent River and had a great time. Coach Scalf was always a gentleman and I am a better person for having known him. Thank you Coach Scalf for all you did for me and countless other students from the college. David Langlois-North Carolina Wesleyan College Class of 1986
Coach Scalf was my biology and gym teacher at Ragsdale while he taught there. I’ve always hoped that all teachers would have as much love and respect for their students and he did. He meant a lot to the Holmes family. Our thoughts are with his family. Our prayers are with you. Rick and Candy Holmes–High Point, NC
I had the pleasure of working with Don at NC Wesleyan, and there was no one more admired and appreciated than Don Scalf. There was never a hint of an unkind word from anyone. I am sorry the students, faculty and staff there now are not getting to know this fine gentleman. My sympathy to Jo Anne and the family.
i am so sorry to hear this sad news. I am thinking about your family. I send my deepest sympathy. Anne Roberson Royster
I was at Westridge Pool one afternoon and finally worked up the courage to go down the slide. I had no idea that the water was over my head in that area of the pool. I panicked and remember flailing around, unable to get my head above water. Next thing I know, there is a big splash beside me and I am being lifted out of the water by Mr. Scalf. I’m sure he saved my life that day. Thank you Mr. Scalf.
Bobby I not only remember Mr. scale and his wonderful smile but you taught me how to dive… he was a beautiful man. My prayers are with his family.
We had the pleasure and honor of knowing and working with Don Scalf while at NC Wesleyan College. Don was one of the kindest and most generous individuals you could ever know. Don always greeted everyone with his boyish, mischievous smile and an encouraging word. Don had a wonderful sense of humor, a big heart, was warm and caring, and made everyone feel special. Don clearly touched the lives of many people and the world was a better place because of him. We will miss you Don Scalf. Our deepest sympathy to JoAnne and to Don’s family. Peace be with you, Steve & Kim Sparks
I am 62 years old. I have told the story many times over the years since I was 15 years old about how Coach Scalf asked me to be a Lifeguard at Westridge Swim Club in Rocky Mount, NC. He was quite a character. I am sure he was a Great Husband and a Great Father. My deepest sympathies to His family and close friends and to all the people whose life he touched. My Lord, there is no telling what that number is. I know that this world wasis far better because of this Legend of a Man. I never saw him that he did not have a smile on his face. I share a broken heart for the loss of Coach Scalf. The tears in my eyes as I write this are a physical sign of what my heart feels for him.
I came to know Mr. Scalf at Westridge Swim Club in the 70’s. I took the Lifesaving class he taught at Westridge and became a lifeguard. I enjoyed working as a lifeguard at Westridge for a couple of summers before starting college. My condolences to the family, I’ll remember you in my prayers. Such a fun loving man.
Don Scalf was one of the kindest men I ever knew and the best neighbor to my Mom, Della Moye. My family is so sorry for your loss and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Our earthly loss is heaven’s gain! Elbert and Marie Fisher
Don was a very special colleague and an inspiration to many faculty and students at Wesleyan. His smile was a friendly greeting when he was met in the hallway or any place around campus. He, Moe, and Jean were a wonderful trio and a great inspiration to me. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Barbara Perry-Sheldon
Coach Scalf was the very best mentor a young Coach could have. What an honor it was to know him and work with him. I would like to share 3 of my favorite memories in honor of the 3 greatest Coaches, Teachers, and most importantly People to ever work at North Carolina Wesleyan College. The first and my personal favorite was the day Coach Scalf, Coach Bauer, Coach Jones and I played golf in Louusburg. Ernie and I were honored to be in the presence of two Coaching legends. Needless to say, we laughed a lot and enjoyed every wonderful story they shared. The second came in 1999. After back to back trips to the College World Series, Coach Scalf was debating on whether to attend with the team or not. I remember speaking to him one on one in the press box and pleading with him to attend. The look in his face was priceless as he began to tear up. I knew that he wanted to be there for the guys! The third memory was watching him take batting practice in 1999. It was tradition that each day the Coaching staff would take some swings at the end of BP. We convinced Coach to get in his cuts on the final day and it was special watching him take part. Thank you Coach for all that you accomplished in your tenure at North Carolina Wesleyan. You brought a smile to everyone! You will forever be an inspiration to all!! Charlie and Tammy Long
Sometimes Don would come over to the Braswell building–his professional errand was our opportunity enjoy a few minutes with him. Always friendly and cheerful–this brief–but valuable time–was like a breath of bright, clear fresh air. I hoped he’d stop for a moment at my little office–just so I could see his million-dollar smile and hear his friendly voice. He usually did stop for a minute or two. . .afterwards, I would also wear a smile. You will be missed Don–it’s a more solemn world without you. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Vivienne Anderson.