Steubenville, Ohio — Joe Pierro, a longtime teacher and coach who spent more than three decades working with students and athletes in Steubenville, has died unexpectedly at age 60.
Pierro died Friday, Sept. 4, after being struck by lightning while mowing his lawn in Steubenville, according to later reports citing the National Lightning Safety Council. His death came only weeks after his retirement from the Steubenville City School District.
Pierro was widely known around Steubenville High School as a teacher, mentor and coach. He worked with the school’s football and baseball programs and spent 31 years as an assistant coach, including 24 years as a varsity assistant.
His work with young athletes extended beyond game days. In baseball, he served as a first-base and outfield coach, while his years around the football program made him a familiar presence within the Big Red athletic community.
Steubenville City Schools described his death as a tremendous loss and remembered Pierro for the influence he had on students both inside and outside the classroom.
School officials said his impact went beyond teaching and athletics, pointing to the relationships he developed and the encouragement he gave to young people over the years.
The loss was felt immediately by the Steubenville football program. Before Friday night’s game against Linsly, players and coaches learned of Pierro’s death. The Big Red went on to win 48-7, improving to 3-0 on the season.
Head coach Reno Saccoccia said the team played the game in Pierro’s memory, noting his long involvement with both the football and baseball programs.
For many in Steubenville, Pierro’s connection to the schools was about more than coaching. His obituary describes a man who valued family, sports and time with the people close to him. He was born in Steubenville in 1966 and graduated from Steubenville Catholic Central High School in 1985 before attending West Liberty State College, where he earned a degree in special education and continued playing baseball.
Pierro is survived by his two children, Michael and Mia. His family described him as someone who found happiness in the people around him and was especially proud of his children.
His retirement had marked the beginning of a new chapter after decades in the school district. Instead, his sudden death has left former students, athletes, colleagues and the wider Big Red community remembering the lasting role he played in their lives.
Memorial donations may be made to Steubenville High School in Pierro’s memory.
