Former LCC hoop coach Brunson dies

By Juanita Kelly-Hill
Staff Writer

Ervin Brunson, who served as the LCC women’s basketball coach for 24 years before he retired in 2017, died Jan. 6, 2023 at the age of 75.

During his time at the college, Brunson left a legacy to remember. 

“The best part about coaching is that I have some sort of impact on the individuals I work with,” Brunson said during an interview with The Lookout in 2017.

“It makes me feel proud to say and know that I’ve had young people, young ladies that have moved on to be productive in their professional careers. … I’ve gotten nurses … teachers … a lot of girls that have moved on to become professionals …Those are the things that make me feel good that I was part of their lives.”

LCC Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Ingram, who worked alongside Brunson during his time at the college, reminisced on their relationship. 

“I remember us riding on the buses to away games and that was where we spent most of our time together,” Ingram said. “We were supportive of each other whether we won or lost, just two guys who would listen to each other.

“Ervin was a great coach that had his own way of teaching his ladies. He had a system and it worked beautifully. He won the national championship, national coach of the year three times, and (was) a three-time state championship winner. That adds up to a great coach, but a better man. (We) were really hurt by the news.”

LCC Athletic Director Greg Lattig shared words of appreciation for the influence Brunson had on the women’s basketball team at LCC.

“Coach Brunson provided stability for the program and his longevity is a testament to that,” Lattig said. “It also depicts the impact he had on so many lives by succeeding on the court and in the classroom over all those years.

“Coach Brunson was synonymous with LCC women’s basketball as his success and longevity represented the college well. I am thankful for his contributions, the foundations he set are impacting our current student athletes in a positive way that his memory will last a long time.”

Brunson will always be remembered by his family at LCC and greatly missed by all the people whose life he touched during his time.

Funeral services are planned for Jan. 21, 2023. Arrangements are by the Riley Funeral Home of Lansing.