05/19/2026
Rest in Power to a True Spartan Giant: Sherman Lewis (1942–2026) 🟢🕊️
The Michigan State University Black Alumni community heavily mourns the passing of a legendary trailblazer, coach, and Hall of Famer, Sherman Lewis, who passed away on Friday at the age of 83.
Sherman Lewis was the definition of excellence. In the early 1960s, when the SEC still banned Black athletes, he came north to East Lansing, where he dominated the gridiron and the track. He became a consensus All-American, a track captain, and finished 3rd in the 1963 Heisman Trophy voting—cementing himself as one of the greatest to ever wear the Green and White.
Beyond his historic collegiate career, Coach Lewis became one of the most brilliant offensive minds in NFL history, winning four Super Bowl rings with the San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers, and breaking barriers as part of the first duo of Black coordinators in the league.
We stand on the shoulders of his courage, his brilliance, and his unmatched legacy. Our deep condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to his family, teammates, and loved ones.
Once a Spartan, always a Spartan. Rest well, Coach. 💚