Beloved UCF coach Shawn Clark has passed away at 50, leaving the college football world in shock. The incident happened unexpectedly during UCF’s bye week in early September 2025. They rushed Clark to the hospital and put him under care, but he tragically didn’t recover. He built a career defined by success and respect, spending five seasons as Appalachian State’s head coach before joining UCF in 2025. The suddenness of Shawn Clark’s passing hit hard because it came without warning. Just weeks ago, a medical emergency landed him in the hospital, worrying fans and players alike.

UCF HC Scott Frost didn’t miss a beat while talking about Clark when he was at the hospital. “I can’t say enough good about him,” Frost said. “You enjoy this sport, and you want to do it with people you like and care about. There’s not that many guys I’ve ever been around that I enjoy being around as much as Coach Clark — not just a great coach, but a really good man.”

Shawn leaves behind his wife, Jonelle Clark, and their two children, Giana and Braxton. As the news rocked the college football world, his family has chosen to grieve in private.

Who is Shawn Clark?

Born in 1975, Clark first shone as a standout offensive lineman at Appalachian State from 1994 to 1998. He was a two-time All-American and a three-time all-conference selection, helping his teams rack up an impressive 45-16 record. He was part of some of the best runs in App State history, including the flawless 12-0 start in 1995. After graduating, he didn’t lose touch with his on-field prowess; instead, he changed it into a teaching opportunity. Clark’s coaching career truly shines when you look at how many NFL offensive linemen he developed. Names like Cooper Hodges and Larry Turner are just the tip of the iceberg. He initially stepped into coaching at Appalachian State in 2016 as the offensive line coach.

His unit was so good that it made history as the first Sun Belt program to have three offensive linemen make first-team all-conference. He took over as head coach in 2019 after Eliah Drinkwitz’s departure. Clark led the Mountaineers to a solid 40-24 record. He led the team to big moments, including a New Orleans Bowl win and their first Sun Belt East title in 2021. Even after the team fired him following a tumultuous 2024 season, Clark never lost his passion for coaching. In 2025, he joined UCF as the offensive line coach under Scott Frost, excited for a fresh start.

Who is Shawn Clark’s wife?

Jonelle Clark is known to be the wife of the late college football coach Shawn Clark. Jonelle was a standout softball player at Eastern Kentucky University. She earned Hall of Fame recognition for her incredible achievements on the field. She was also a three-time All-Conference pick and set numerous program records as a pitcher. Her accolades include Ohio Valley Conference Pitcher of the Year honors in her junior and senior seasons, along with multiple All-Tournament and All-Region honors. Jonelle has always been Shawn’s rock through his coaching journey, with their bond rooted in sports and family.

When Shawn passed away at the local hospital, Jonelle was right there by his side as he took his last breaths. He was hospitalized on Tuesday, Sept. 9, after a medical emergency and stayed stable until he passed away last night. Shawn’s former workplace, App State, didn’t fall behind in sharing their condolences on social media. “We are profoundly saddened by the passing of App State alumnus, football All-American and former head coach Shawn Clark,” App State Football posted on social media. “We extend our deepest sympathy to Shawn’s family and everyone who knew and loved him.”

Even UCF HC Scott Frost wished the family, extending his support for them. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jonelle, and children, Giana and Braxton,” Frost said. “We are here to support them and will continue to keep them in our hearts and prayers.”

How did Shawn Clark and his wife meet?

Jonelle and Shawn Clark have shared a long marriage and raised two beautiful kids. However, proper details about their meeting and time together are not available in the public forum.

Do Shawn Clark and Jonelle have kids?

Shawn Clark and Jonelle Clark shared more than just a passion for sports. They built a family together, raising two children named Giana and Braxton. With their father gone, the children are now left in their mother’s care. Rest in Peace, Shawn Clark! You will be missed.