WKU football coaching legend Jimmy Feix, the winningest coach in program history, passed away Sunday afternoon. Feix was 83 years old, and in addition to his successful head-coaching career, he was the Hilltoppers’ first All-American athlete in 1952.

He spent 27 years as a member of the Hilltopper coaching staff — 16 as head coach. He compiled a 106-56-6 all-time record from 1968 to 1983.

Feix spent time on the Hill as an All-American athlete, assistant football coach, head football coach, assistant director of Alumni Affairs, director of Alumni Affairs and director of athletics.

“Coach Feix was a legendary figure in so many ways, and his influence transcended far beyond his role as WKU’s head football coach and athletics director,” Athletic Director Todd Stewart said in a press release. “His 106 wins are the most in our football program’s history, but no number can accurately measure the tremendous impact he had on everyone he touched. It is not often that one individual can have such a positive effect on so many, but Coach Feix certainly did and the Hilltopper Nation is forever grateful.”

“His thoughtful guidance and input were so meaningful, and it was an honor to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Frankie, sons Jimmy and Jeff, and the entire Feix family.”

The playing field in Smith Stadium was named “Jimmy Feix Field” in his honor in 1991. Feix was a member of the 10-person inaugural class of the WKU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1991.

Arrangements for a service to honor the life of Feix are expected to be finalized on Monday.