Overview

William Ernest Johnson, known affectionately as Ernie or Coach, was a legendary football coach who passed away at the age of 87 in his San Juan Capistrano home on September 15, 2013. Born in Bruceville, Texas, on October 12, 1925, he made significant contributions to high school and college football throughout his career.

Ernie's journey in sports began in Fullerton, California, where he excelled in multiple sports during his school years. His commitment to football and coaching left a lasting impact on many players and the communities he served.

Key details

  • Full name: William Ernest Johnson
  • Born: October 12, 1925, in Bruceville, Texas
  • Died: September 15, 2013, at home in San Juan Capistrano, California
  • Moved to Fullerton, California, in 1927
  • Attended Fullerton High School and Fullerton Junior College
  • Joined the Merchant Marines during WWII and served for three years
  • Graduated from San Jose State in 1951 on a football scholarship
  • Drafted into the Army during the Korean conflict, serving in the Counter Intelligence Corps
  • Earned a General Secondary Teaching Credential from UCLA
  • Coached at El Rancho High School from 1954 to 1969, winning CIF, State, and National Championships
  • Named California Coach of the Year in 1966
  • Served as Defensive Coordinator at Long Beach State in 1969
  • Head Football Coach at Newport Harbor High School in 1970, winning the school's first championship in 28 years
  • Coached at Cerritos College from 1971 to 1977, winning the South Coast Conference Championship in 1972
  • Retired from Cerritos College in 1992
  • The football field at El Rancho High School was named Ernie Johnson Field in 2011
  • A documentary film, Touchdown Newport, about his 1970 season, was previewed in 2013
  • Survived by his wife, Vicki, and remembered fondly by his former players

Context

Ernie Johnson's coaching career spanned several decades, during which he became a prominent figure in California high school and college football. His achievements on the field and his dedication to mentoring young athletes have left a significant legacy in the sports community.

What happens next

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for November 3rd at 1 PM at the El Rancho High School Gymnasium in Pico Rivera, California. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Ernie Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund at El Rancho High School.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific circumstances of his passing and additional information about his contributions beyond what is mentioned are not confirmed.