Southington High Mourns Death Of Beloved Basketball Coach

SOUTHINGTON, CT — The Southington High School community is mourning the sudden loss of assistant girls basketball coach Bill Queen.

Southington Superintendent of Schools Steven Madancy said Queen died Tuesday evening after practice.

Madancy said school officials met with parents and team members Tuesday night "to allow some quiet time in the building to come back together, process this, and support one another as a team."

As a result, the basketball game against South Windsor planned for Thursday night has been postponed and counselors were at SHS Wednesday morning to help support students and staff if needed.

Tuesday night, Madancy sent a letter to Southington High School families about Queen's sudden passing.

Madancy wrote:

"It is with profound sadness that I share the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of our Assistant Girls' Basketball Coach, Bill Queen. Our entire community mourns the loss of a dedicated coach, mentor, and friend.

"Coach Queen played a crucial role in shaping the experiences of our student-athletes. His unwavering commitment to the growth and development of each player, both on and off the court, made him an integral part of our girls' basketball family. His passion for the game and genuine care for the well-being of our athletes leave a lasting impact that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"During this difficult time, Southington School's thoughts and prayers are with Coach Queen's family and friends. We extend our deepest condolences to those who shared in his journey and were touched by his kindness, guidance, and positivity.

"We will have counseling staff on hand tomorrow morning at Southington High School, ready to support any students or families in need.

"May we find strength in each other as we navigate this challenging time together. Coach Queen’s memory will forever live on in the spirit of the athletes he inspired and the positive influence he had on our school community."