Houston Baptist assistant coach Roger Willhite passed away on Monday.
Willhite’s death was reported by KRIV sports director Mark Berman, who quoted HBU athletic director Steve Moniaci describing Willhite as “one of the most beloved figures in our history”.
A 26-year member of the HBU coaching staff, Willhite joined the program when the Huskies competed at the NAIA level and was part of the staff that helped shepherd them ultimately to Division I. The Huskies qualified for the Southland Conference tournament this season after posting a 22-17 overall record and a 15-12 conference mark.
A former high school athlete, Willhite served in the United States Army on both active duty and in the reserves. He also worked in the business and legal fields, and coached youth softball before beginning his collegiate coaching career.
In 2006, Willhite’s daughter Rachelle was inducted into the HBU Sports Hall of Honor thanks to her exploits during a four-year playing career for the Husky softball team.