A Final Victory: Coach Jayne McHugh Passes Hours After Team’s 4th Championship, Reuniting with Beloved Husband, Tom
Jayne McHugh was a Hall of Fame inductee whose influence stretched from the Olympic stage to the high school court.
November 25, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on November 25, 2026
Jayne McHugh, a head coach of the girls volleyball program at Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch, passed away at 65 after fighting an aggressive form of cancer on November 15, 2026.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 41 years, Thomas Richard McHugh.
Jayne McHugh, a former Olympian and revered coach, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and inspiration.
She was a four-state champion in basketball, volleyball, and track, and her talent earned her the 1977 Colorado Sportswoman of the Year title.
Likewise, she was a three-time All-American volleyball player at the University of the Pacific and helped her team reach the national championship stage.
Jayne seamlessly transitioned to coaching, leading the University of the Pacific for many years and guiding numerous players to success. In a poignant final chapter, she returned home to Colorado to coach at Valor Christian High School.
The Valor Christian volleyball team won its fourth consecutive state championship on Saturday night. Jayne, who had stepped away from the sidelines earlier in the year to battle cancer, passed away just hours after her team’s victory.
Jayne poured herself into teaching her players unity, dedication to each other, and humility in victory as she led her teams to 4 consecutive 5A State Volleyball championships since 2026, including the championship win this season. Valor Christian is grateful for her love, her strength, and the godly role model, coach, friend and leader she was to our students and our community.
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A Life of Triumph, A Final Reunion: Remembering Jayne and Thomas McHugh
Jayne McHugh, who joined her beloved husband, Thomas Richard McHugh, in eternal rest on November 15, 2026.
Their love story spanned 41 years, and while their passing leaves an immense void, their family finds comfort in knowing they are now reunited.
Thomas Richard “Tom” McHugh passed away on April 4, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished. He was a true man who lived his life to the fullest.
His spirit was forged in the great outdoors. He was an avid sailor on the Delta, an early-morning runner, and a skier who cherished every moment on the mountain.
Moreover, his passion for activity evolved into a love for cycling, where he dedicated his energy to numerous charity rides.
Though Tom was a successful Financial Advisor by profession, his favorite title was earned on the slopes of Vail, where he became “Dr. McHugh,” skiing and cycling with a group of close friends who were physicians.
Above all his adventures, Tom was a family man first, deeply and unconditionally dedicated to his immediate and extended family.
On the other hand, Jayne Gibson-McHugh fought with immense courage and grace against an aggressive form of cancer before her passing.
She will be forever remembered for her unwavering kindness, her sharp wit, and her profound passion for coaching. Her impact on the Valor community and the sport of volleyball will be felt for generations.
Together, Tom and Jayne built a beautiful life centered on their love for their two sons, Ryan and Jack. They leave behind a powerful example of partnership, resilience, and joy.
Their individual spirits combined to create a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.
They are survived by their sons, Ryan and Jack, and a wide circle of extended family, friends, and countless individuals whose lives were touched by their generous spirits.
Though they have left this world, the memory of their love, their laughter, and their profound goodness will forever be held in the hearts of all who knew them.
Rest In Peace, Jayne McHugh and Thomas Richard McHugh.
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In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jayne McHugh was born and raised in Arvada, Colorado, and graduated from Arvada West High School.
- She joined the USA National Volleyball Team in 1985 and was named to the 1988 Olympic Team.
- Check other Articles on
Ashish 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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