Minor High School is mourning the sudden death of one of its own.

Lee Ellis, a science teacher and softball coach for the Tigers, died this week.

Jefferson County superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin released the following statement:

“I was sad to learn of the sudden passing of Minor High School science teacher and softball coach Lee Ellis. By all accounts he was a dedicated teacher, coach, and colleague who had a passion for helping young people succeed. He also was a dedicated father to his children. My prayers are with his family. Grief counselors have been made available to students and staff.”

Ellis led Minor to the Class 6A, Area 10 championship in the spring. He had been at the school for two years.

According to this Facebook page, he taught science previously at Susan Moore and Walker High Schools. He graduated from Walker.