Dunbar High School track coach dies of COVID-19

Carl Burnside, principal at Dunbar High School, announced Tuesday that the school’s track coach has lost his battle with COVID-19.

According to Coach Guy Thomas’ family, Thomas passed away around 10 a.m.

Thomas was, at one point, hospitalized and in critical condition after contracting COVID-19. He spent a little over a month in the hospital.

Burnside said Thomas was more than just a coach; he made a difference in the lives of his students.

“Well, what Coach Thomas is doing, he is making them work, kids believe, and they stretch themselves beyond what they think they could do,” Burnside said.

“You hear about him being a fantastic track coach, but what he is an outstanding mentor for young people.”

Even from his hospital bed, Thomas spoke about plans for one of his athletes to receive a scholarship.

Burnside says no announcement about any service has been made yet, but as soon as he’s aware he’ll let the “Dunbar family” know.