Mt. Vernon HS Football Coach Doug Peacock Dies After Battling With Cancer, Leaving His Beloved Wife, Desa
Coach P was a rock of Mt. Vernon's valued culture and will be missed dearly.
NewsAshishJanuary 10, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 9, 2026
Doug Peacock, a longtime Mt. Vernon High School football coach, passed away after battling cancer on January 8, 2026.
He was hospitalized for several weeks and was recently transferred to home hospice care.
Doug Peacock dedicated his life to high school sports.
He graduated from Eastern Hancock in 1975, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete, excelling in football, wrestling, and track.
His football skills were extraordinary, and he earned both All-State and High School All-American honors. He was a member of the 1975 IFCA South Indiana High School All-Star football team.
Afterward, Doug became one of the great coaching mentors for a generation of athletes. He joined Mt. Vernon High School as a football coach in 1994, shaping young people on and off the field.
He retired from coaching in 2010 and from teaching in 2014. In 2026, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame, celebrating a career dedicated to excellence, leadership, and service.
Such a great man. It was an absolute honor to have been one of his assistant coaches at one time, and I feel blessed that I maintained a connection with him over the years. May Coach Doug Peacock rest with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. ✝️
Brian M. AlveyAlso, see: Former Freeport HS Football Player Matthew Boyd Dies at 22 Following Battle With Mental Health
Coach Doug Peacock’s Legacy of Leadership Lives On
Doug Peacock passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer at 68 on January 8, 2026.
He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, coach, and man of deep faith.
Special day as all my kids made it home for the cookout! Awesome gift, thanks kids! pic.twitter.com/KSxVxjoqPE
— Doug Peacock (@DpeacockDoug) June 22, 2015
Doug was survived by his loving wife, Desa, who served as his steadfast partner and primary caregiver throughout his illness.
His family was the joy of his life. He was a proud and adoring father and grandfather.
Similarly, he shared an exceptionally close bond with his parents and often celebrated heartfelt birthday wishes publicly.
I pray at 96, I can push my great-granddaughters on a tire swing!
Doug PeacockDoug was a man of unwavering strength, and his Christian faith was the foundation of his life. His family and community take great comfort in knowing he is now at peace.
And the race is on…. pic.twitter.com/L2T4YYhSuF
— Doug Peacock (@DpeacockDoug) May 16, 2014
In his final weeks, a beloved coach was hospitalized for several weeks and then transferred to home hospice care.
Friends and neighbors have organized a Meal Train to support the Peacock family during this difficult time.
Those wishing to contribute are asked to note dietary preferences of gluten-free and no seafood. Additional donations can also be made directly through the Meal Train website.
Asking prayers for my old coaching buddy and longtime good friend. That is a die heart Indiana Hoosier and played for the legendary Coach Lee Corso. I am praying that God will heal Coach Doug Peacock’s body and will comfort his love ones. 🙏🏾♥️
Gregory JohnsonThe Peacock family will soon announce a memorial service to celebrate the life of a beloved coach.
His legacy of faith, family, football, and fierce loyalty to his community will forever endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
Rest In Peace, Doug Peacock.
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- Doug Peacock
- Mt. Vernon High School
AshishAshish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.
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