Legendary local and Knox College coach passes away

A coach described as one of the best in town at any institution has passed away.

Knox College and the Watson-Thomas Funeral Home both say James R. “Jimmy” Isaacson died Friday at the age of 78.

The college says Isaacson won 119 games as head coach of the Prairie Fire baseball time in his eight seasons at the helm. But he didn’t stop there, serving as an assistant coach for his son Jami for 13 more seasons, retiring in 2012.

“He’s just one of the greatest coaches that our city has ever known,” says Galesburg High School coach and WGIL Silver Streaks Boys Basketball Analyst Steve Cheesman. “[Isaacson] had such a great influence on so many young men in so many areas, and he will be missed greatly, and certainly missed in a big way by me. Just a wonderful coach and man.”

In a Knox College news release, former Athletic Director Harley Knosher called Jim Isaacson “the best baseball man the town and the college will ever hope to see,” citing Isaacson’s knowledge of the game, but also his ability to show respect for his players.

Isaacson won a total of 1,172 games in his career, as he also coached Legion, Galesburg Pioneers, Carl Sandburg College, and GHS teams.

Among Isaacson’s accolades over the years were being named Midwest Conference Coach of the Year twice, five consecutive post-season tournament appearances as head coach, and being named “Community Man of the Year” by the Galesburg Jaycees in 1980.

Funeral services for Isaacson — who also founded the Galesburg JFL organization — will be Friday at 11am at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home in Galesburg, with a visitation there the day before from 4-7pm.

Memorials may be given to Hospice Compassus, or the Knox College “Jimmy Fund.”

(Photo courtesy Watson-Thomas Funeral Home)

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