of Searcy, AR
March 28, 1941 - July 25, 2022
Jerry Dwain Mote, affectionally known as ''Coach Mote'' to all, passed on to be with God on July 25, 2022. He was a faithful and devoted husband, father, teacher, coach and mentor. But , most of all, he was an example for us all to follow. He was a rock for all that knew him. His faith in God, despite this world, never waivered.
He was born in Justin, Texas on March 28, 1941 to Allen Dwain and Evelyn Thomas Mote. He grew up in Gainesville, Texas. He loved Gainesville and often traveled there, until his mother passed peacefully in 2006.
Coach Mote is survived by his wife of 60 years, Betty Lynn Sowell Mote; two children that loved him dearly, daughter, Angie (Patrick) Henrie and son, Greg Dwain (Shannon) Mote; one brother, Gail (Sandy) Mote; one sister, Rhonda (Lanny) Hillis; one sister-in-law, Nancy Sowell (Dr. David) Hatfield; seven grandchildren, Dillon Howard, Emma (Josh)Nguyen, Ben Howard, Wyatt Mote, Garrett Mote, Michael and Abby Hamby, along with his nieces and nephews and other extended family and many, many friends.
Dad had been a team captain for the Harding Bisons Football team. In 1984, the Searcy Lions, with Coach Mote as the Head Football Coach, were the runner-up State Champions and he was awarded the 1984 Outstanding Coach. In 1994, he was inducted into the Harding University Sports Hall of Fame. In 2006, he was recognized by the Searcy School District for 43 years of service in teaching and inducted to the Hall of Honor in 2008. In 2014, Harding University Honored him for the 1959 team. That honor can be viewed today on the back of the Scoreboard at First Security Stadium. He is number ''25''.
Dad taught me and my sister about God and the sacrifice of His own son and taught us every story in the Bible.
He baptized all of his grandchildren. Coach Mote loved his neighbor and never rejected anyone. Because of his personal relationship with, and immense love for God, he only wanted to live as an example. He succeeded in this endeavor.
Mark Twain once wrote that we should all endeavor to live in such a way that even the undertaker would be sorry to see you go. My dad achieved that. He will be missed.
Dad always kept a sign on the door to his office that read, ''When the whip brushes by the flank of a mule, he balks and sulks. But when the whip snaps against the thoroughbred, it responds with all its courage and strength!'' ''Be the thoroughbred,'' Dad always told us. ''Praise God in all weathers!''
May we all live by his example, which was to follow the example of Jesus! Endurance of Faith to all, for Dad Fought the Good Fight and He Finished the Race.
The services for Coach Mote are scheduled for Visitation at the Downtown Church of Christ Family Life Center on Thursday evening, July 28, 2022 from 5:00 7:00 PM, with the Funeral to be held on Friday, July 29, 2022 at 10:00 AM also at the church Family Life Center. The family has asked that any Memorials be made to either Searcy High School Football Foundation or Harding University Football Foundation in Coach Mote's name. All services are under the direction of Roller-Daniel Funeral Home.
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71 Condolence(s)
Lamonica R Brady
Saturday, August 27, 2022
Coach Mote was my teacher in 8th grade I absolutely love this man he was so sweet and kind he could be tough when he he could be tough when he needed to be but he wasn't hardly ever tough he was just too sweet and I love listening to his stories that he told so sad to hear of his passing prayers are with the family
Jerry Jones
Monday, August 8, 2022
I knew Jerry from his days in college. I can say Jerry was the real deal---outstanding example in all areas of life.
Bruce Robins
Sunday, July 31, 2022
I came to know Jerry when he and Ray Griffin taught Sunday School to a bunch of teens at the Downtown Church of Christ in the 1960's. The Christian examples that he & Ray set for us live on within my soul & so many others that you taught, mentored, & inspired. Thanks, Jerry.
WJV
Friday, July 29, 2022
God bless "The Jackrabbit" Jerry Mote. The BEST unpretentious coach that treated all the students great at SHS. THE epitome of what a coach should be to young people.
Dana Barger Jones
Friday, July 29, 2022
Motes, Angie, and Ben, I am sooooo sorry to hear of the passing of your husband, father, and grandfather. He was always a bright spot to anyone who encountered him with his sweet smile and wit. I would have been present today, had I not now just now received the sad news. Take care of yourselves and remember all the good! Dana
Dane Altman
Friday, July 29, 2022
I’ve known Coach Mote since the mid 60’s, when I was just a kid. He was born to be a coach and a mentor. A great man of faith. He will be missed by many as he left a great mark.
Gary and Carolyn Gregg
Friday, July 29, 2022
Carolyn and I wish to send sincere condolences to Jerry’s family. We will all miss his competitive spirit (especially on the racquetball court), his quick wit, and mischievous smile. I was a better Christian man, and a better teacher and coach having played for him as a Bison in the early 70s. He will be truly be missed by the Searcy and Harding communities.
Jim Counts
Friday, July 29, 2022
Many good memories . He had a passion for God and Family and Coaching —-that’s a perfect Trifecta !
Roger A Phillips
Thursday, July 28, 2022
I first met Coach Mote in 1981 although I didn’t play football Coach Mote stood out to me as a fine Man and as I went through High School I had the utmost respect for him so my prayers go out to Greg and all his family he will be missed!
Lewis Walker
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Trish and I were so saddened to hear of Jerry’s passing. Being a teammate on the 1959 Football Team I witnessed Jerry’s character and leadership qualities first hand. Jerry touched so many lives in a positive way. Many will strive to do the same. He will be remembered, he will be missed. Prayers for the Family’s comfort at this time.
Ellen Soles
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Praying for the whole family. He was one of the best. Blessed to have known him and been picked on by him for the last few decades
Lisa Risener
Thursday, July 28, 2022
We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Coach Mote. We will continue to pray for your family. I know my dad sure was happy to see him walk through the gates of heaven and no doubt was the first in line to give him a big hug. We love you guys - the Risener family
Richard Rasberry
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote was always nice to me. I really appreciated his whit and smile.
Coach Tom Stiffler
Thursday, July 28, 2022
In ‘84 we started out in the “T†formation, two tight ends and three backs in the backfield. About as conservative as you can get. We were trying to run the option too. We were good but not great. Coach keep tinkering with the idea to open it up a little bit. He was frustrated with our offense one Friday night and decided to make the move. He put the two halfbacks out as flankers with the fullback as the lone back. We went from option team to drop back passing team in one play. Nobody could stop us. We went from good to great. What a team, what a coach. RIP Coach Mote.
jason howard
Thursday, July 28, 2022
I wish you would have been my Dad. RIP Coach
Terry
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote inspired so many to do great things, wish I could have told him one more time. Thanks, Coach. Love and prayers 🙠â¤ï¸
Beverly Joyner
Thursday, July 28, 2022
I am smiling through my tears as I remember my beloved colleague, Coach Mote. To Greg and the family, I am so sorry for your loss.
Beverly Joyner
Richard Carter
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Another great Brother receives his reward. Mote loved the Bisons and was known by all the Brotherhood. As color commentator he each player personally. We were Club brother and fellow members of the 59 team. He'll be missed by the family and all of Searcy who new Coach Mote. God's Blessing on Betty Lynn and the rest of the family.
Joseph Bryant
Thursday, July 28, 2022
R.I.P.JERRY MY FAMILY'S CONDOLENCES TO JERRY'S FAMILY AND FRIENDS. JEE,LI,RICHARD,JAMES,DAVID AND KIMBERLY BRYANT.
B R Barden
Thursday, July 28, 2022
I’ve known Jerry for over 62 years. We lived across the hall from each other in Grad Dorm, played on the Bison baseball team together, watched him during his great career with Bison football, and completed fiercely against each other in club sports (SubT vs APK). In later years we played a lot of golf together and served on the Bison Boosters.
Jerry was a good loyal friend and we has many good conversations through the years. I will miss him and our times together.
Betty, Angie, Greg and the family, I’m so sorry for your loss. But Jerry is where we all want to be! Love and blessings to all the family!
B R
Leah Brooks
Thursday, July 28, 2022
He was always nice to everybody, even if he wasn't your teacher or coach, and knew most everyone by name; condolences to the family. SHS Class of 1987
Leta Albritton
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Jerry has been my dear friend since 1963 when he and my best friend Betty Lynn married. He has always been a lovable, gracious friend . His hospitality to me, and devotion to his family have been so impressive. I will miss him and was hoping to get him to NY for a Yankee/Mets game. God bless him.
Ben O'Neal III
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Loved playing racket ball with Jerry. A real competitor! He said the game begin in the locker room and ended in the locker. Hugh Groover taught us both the game.
Dana Runyan
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Always respected Coach while I was a student at Searcy. He was such a kind compassionate and Godly man that any and all who knew him held him in the highest honor. Prayers for the family during this difficult time.
Fly high Coach.
Tommy Jackson
Thursday, July 28, 2022
What a nice man. His Christian example always inspired me. Condolences and love to the family.
Bobby & Nancy Youngblood
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Jerry & I grew up in the same neighborhood in Gainesville. Was deeply touched that he made a special effort to attend my 81st birthday party.
Marilyn (Worley) Dangerfield
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote was a great man that I got to know with my Searcy High School. My two children got to see his kindness and his devotion to his students too. He always had a smile on his face and never ran the kids in the ground. He would give them time to make sure they understood the lessons. I was always impressed with his love for his family too. I will be praying for you all. He was a great man!
Edye McQueen
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Betty, Circle-M Termite and Pest Control want to send our condolences for the loss of your Jerry. Chris, David and myself are sadden by his passing. May you and your family find peace knowing he is resting now.
Sam henson
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote was great mentor! He will be missed.
Shannon Smith Whitehead
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Mr. Jerry always made me feel like he thought I was special. The older I got, I realized he made everyone feel that way. His warmth, wit, and twinkle in his eye were infectious. And I will always love him for the devoted friend he was to my daddy. Sending you love and prayers, Betty Lynn, Angie, Greg, and all the rest of the family he cherished.
Sonya Couch
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Out of all the teachers I had in school Coach Mote stands out the most to me as the nicest teacher I ever had. I wasn't the best student in the world because I had a lot of problems but he treated me like I was the best. My heart breaks for you all and I will keep you in my prayers. It was my honor to have known Coach Mote. He was a true blessing.
Chad Crabill
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote will be greatly missed. He helped raise many of us through football and as a teacher. He was a mentor to many, including me. He will always be respected and loved by the many he touched.
John W. Collier
Thursday, July 28, 2022
To the family of my teammate and loyal friend,
Though the years have separated us, we still hold the bond made our first year at Harding. All of us that were part of that 1959 team and afterwards will always be a close nit group. Not only our teammates but their wives and family as well. Jerry and I always made a pact that we would make up
the "Texas" backfield for the Bisons.
We will miss a great leader, teammate, friend, and most of all a Christian.
John Collier #33
Jeff Hopper
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Betty, Judy and I grieve with you. Jerry was a wonderful friend to me. I enjoyed playing handball with him and he was always a fierce competitor but a gentleman at the same time. We are sorry for your loss.
LARRY P CRAIN
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Got to know Jerry when he coached my son Marc on the 1984 Searcy High football team and later formed several friendships with him and his buddies on trip to Destin to play golf for several days. I know from the experiences what a very devoted Christian man and I’ll always cherish the memories of knowing him.
Jeff Davis
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote was such a great example to all of us. I was fortunate enough to be his student and colleague. He loved God, his family, and football! He will be dearly missed.
Terri Oakes
Thursday, July 28, 2022
You will be missed Coach Mote!! You are so loved. Praying for your dear family. May God give them peace and comfort and wrap his arms around them
Connye Nokes Fortner
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote had to have been the most wonderful man I have ever known and with whom I had the privilege of sharing a career and love of students. His jaunty gate up and down the halls of SHS will forever be etched in my memories. Another great man and friend gone too soon.
Larry McCarty
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Coach Mote was one of the first people to welcome me to Searcy in 1990. We not only had a great working relationship during my days at The Daily Citizen but had a great friendship. I loved our pregame talks. Prayers to Betty, Angie and the rest of the family.
Bill Joseph
Thursday, July 28, 2022
What a mentor and friend. A lot of great memories working with Coach Mote!!
Steve Spurlock
Thursday, July 28, 2022
Greg I’ll be praying for you and your family. Coach was a great man and will be missed.
Dana Emberson
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was a beloved colleague and such a great Christian man. He will be missed.
Terry Quattlebaum
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Was a great man, they dont make them like that anymore
Tanya Hall
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was my FAVORITE TEACHER!!! He was the BEST!!! He always made me smile. He will truly be missed! Class of 96
Tanya Hall
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was my FAVORITE TEACHER!!! He was the BEST!!! He always made me smile. He will truly be missed!
Kristen Ridout smith
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was a special person to all of us. He will be greatly missed.
Dustin Musteen
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was my Middle School football coach. He pushed to me to be the best football player I could be. Always had great things to say and teach. Sorry for your loss my family and I will be praying for you all.
Beth Stiles Jackson
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was my favorite teacher at Searcy High School. I graduated from Searcy in 1995. He loved his students and school.
Jay Trotter
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Although sorrowful that Coach is no longer with us here, I am so grateful that his JOY is complete. His faith...his life... and his obedience leave a beautiful legacy. Â
Janet Crouch Wentz
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Betty, Angie and Greg, we were so blessed to be neighbors when we moved to Searcy! We love your family and Coach Mote will be missed. Thankful we saw him at dad’s funeral in June. You are such a special family. Love and prayers.
Janet Crouch Wentz
Al Pickett
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
I had the pleasure of covering Searcy’s 1984 state runner-up team when I was sports editor of the Citizen. I have many great memories of my time spent with Coach Mote. A class act.
Mickey Gentry
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
First met coach Mote in 1978 and he’s been a friend ever since. One of the good guys for sure and he will be missed.
Lathan Garnett
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Great teammate on the first HU football team in 1959. A super friend through the years. You are missed my friend. May God bless and comfort your family.
Larry Nokes
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Gonna miss you coach.
Charlie Carroll
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
What a good man Coach Mote was. Certainly was a good friend. Prayers for his family.
David W. Lee
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
The name alone “Coach Mote†meant a clear representation of Searcy football. A highly respected man with fairness in every way. Sending condolences to his family.
Clarence and Ann Johnson
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Betty, Angie and Greg you are in our prayers. Jerry was a great guy,we know he will be missed so much. He loved you all so much. Ann and Clarence Johnson, Chapel Hill,Tn.
Holly Deshay Montgomery
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was my 7th grade history teacher, a very sensible man who treated us kindly & consistently, & even called his students "sir" and ma'am." He imparted important ideas to many of us, and he will be remembered for a long time.
Lori Nielsen
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was a wonderful friend and colleague. Prayers and love for the family. I will truly miss him.
Jeff Montgomery
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
I sure did love Coach Mote and will miss him. Prayers for all of his family.
Sarah Corn-Bell
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Coach Mote was a wonderful man. Never had him as teacher or a coach, but he was a truly amazing coach. He will truly missed. Praying for his family and friends.
Harold @ Dolores Valentine
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Dolores anI will really miss our old friend (since 1959) . We pray that Betty Lynn, Angie and Greg will soon be at peace with their husband and and dad’s passing. Jett was a very good friend, member at Downtown for forty years together, colleagues teaching at Searcy High School. We were Bison Booster Club Members for many years
Zac & Connie Muncy
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
We are so sorry to hear of Coach Mote's passing! He left such a positive impact on the Searcy and Harding communities. He was a blessing to all of us. Blessings to all of you at this time.
Joe david Smith
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Lot’s of memories from one of my mentors and a good one he was
Dawn Cox
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Jerry was such a good man. My family lived next door to his family years ago. My sincere condolences to the family. Praying Gods peace and comfort for them.
Linda Sullivan
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Miss Betty. So very sorry to hear about Mr. Mote. He was a very kind and thoughtful man. Will be praying for you all
Joey and Lavada Pace
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
We are deeply sorry for your loss. Jerry was a fine man and will be greatly missed. Our love and prayers to all the family.
David Crook
Tuesday, July 26, 2022
A fantastic man, father, cousin, and leader of men & women on & off the field. Will be missed! ♥
Arlene Morris
Tuesday, July 26, 2022
Sending our love. We are very grateful for our shared good times through all the years.
Barbara Neal Palcewski
Tuesday, July 26, 2022
Forever in our hearts. Sincere condolences to all who loved Jerry. Barbara Neal class of '59.
Glenn & Rita Murphy
Tuesday, July 26, 2022
Our love and prayers.