Hardaway High School Football Coach Venson Maddox, 26, Died From Cancer, Leaving Family Behind!

Venson was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia in 2018.

October 17, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 17, 2026

Beloved football coach Venson Maddox passed away after a long fight with a rare blood disorder on October 17, 2026, at the age of 26.

Venson Maddox is survived by his mother, Juanita Maddox, and sister, Shaundra Maddox Pough.

He also leaves behind his cousins, Shannon Williams and Jasmine Maddox, as well as his extended family.

Venson was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, a condition where the body doesn’t make enough blood cells, in 2018.

He went through harsh treatments like blood transfusions, chemotherapy, and stem cell therapy.

Venson spent weeks in Atlanta hospitals, taking countless medicines and dealing with constant checkups. In fact, by some miracle, he got better for a while.

He was back at Hardaway, teaching and coaching, smiling and laughing again. However, in 2026, the symptoms returned.

Reportedly, his blood counts dropped, and he had to face more heavy treatments.

Fast forward to 2026, Venson had to face his most brutal battle as the disease hit harder.

Doctors said he needed a bone marrow transplant to survive. It meant more chemo, radiation, and a long recovery where he couldn’t work.

Football coach Venson Maddox with his mother, Juanita Maddox, and sister, Shaundra. (Image Source: Facebook)

Venson had been sharing his health updates via his Facebook. On September 7, 2026, Venson shared exclusive news about his health condition via his Facebook, writing:

Hello family and friends… it took a lot for me to share this, but in a couple weeks I will be going through chemo/radiation then after that I will be getting a bone marrow transplant.. if anybody knows me definitely knows I’m a warrior and not a worrier…

On September 24, 2026, he started his journey toward a bone marrow transplant.

He shared about it, writing, “Day 1 (Chemotherapy) FAITH OVER FEAR 8:28.“

Four days later, on September 28, 2026, Venson shared an update, writing:

Today I am in great spirits Day 4 of CHEMOTHERAPY completed!!! AIN’T GOD GOOD

Venson

Venson had his last chemotherapy on October 8, 2026. On Facebook, he wrote:

Blessed today I have an appetite! Last day of Chemotheratpy from post transplant.. very thankful of the village I have.. My GOD is an amazing GOD 🏆

Through it all, his sister, Shaundra, has had his back. While he was going through chemotherapy, she shared an emotional post addressing him as “her first baby.”

Anyone who knows Venson, BJ, or Rollie knows he was my first baby — my first son — long before I had kids of my own. This test you’re facing has purpose, and we are forever riding beside you, no matter what. 💪🏽❤️
You are a warrior, and YOUR fight is OUR fight.

Ashley Gatlin Rizer, a close friend of Venson’s sister Shaundra, wrote a heartfelt message for Shaundra, who is mourning the loss of her brother. She wrote:

To know Shaun, is to love her. Everyone please lift our sister up. She has always been a pillar of strength for all of us, it is now our turn to do the same for her. Shaun is a walking angel on earth and today she had to say a hard goodbye to her brother. I wanted to share this beautiful video she made and to show the love this sister had for her brother.

Mr. Maddox, known as BJ to those close to him, worked as a paraprofessional at Hardaway, helping students who needed extra support.

He also coached football, encouraging kids to do their best both on the field and in life.

The Hardaway PTO shared the sad news, stating that he made a significant difference and will be deeply missed.

During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of his wife, sister, and extended family.

Rest In Heavenly Peace, Venson Maddox!

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Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.

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