Remembering Patti Edwards and her legacy of kindness

The wife of BYU legend LaVell Edwards died Friday at the age of 93, but the difference she made to so many will live on.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Patti Edwards, the wife of the late BYU football coach LaVell Edwards, passed away at the age of 93. Known for her kindness and generosity, Patti was beloved by former players, coaches' wives, and the Provo community. She and LaVell were a dynamic duo, with his coaching success and her warm, welcoming spirit making them an unbeatable team.

Why it matters

Patti Edwards' passing marks the end of an era for BYU football and the Provo community. As the wife of a legendary coach, she left an indelible mark through her kindness, compassion, and ability to make everyone around her feel special. Her legacy of warmth and generosity will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.

The details

Patti Edwards was 93 years old when she passed away on February 13, 2026. She and her husband LaVell, who died in 2016, had been married for decades and were a beloved couple in the Provo community. Patti was known for her friendly demeanor, often stopping to chat with people and share special moments, like showing off the Super Bowl rings of her friends Andy and Tammy Reid. She maintained close relationships with former BYU players, coaches' wives, and neighbors, always making them feel welcomed and appreciated.

  • Patti Edwards passed away on February 13, 2026 at the age of 93.
  • Her husband, LaVell Edwards, died on December 29, 2016.

The players

Patti Edwards

The wife of legendary BYU football coach LaVell Edwards, known for her kindness, compassion, and ability to make everyone around her feel special.

LaVell Edwards

The former head coach of the BYU football team, leading the Cougars to a national championship in 1984 and 29 seasons of success.

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who was friends with Patti Edwards and had won multiple Super Bowl championships.

Tammy Reid

The wife of Andy Reid, who was friends with Patti Edwards and showed off the family's Super Bowl rings to Patti's friends.

Andrea McCann

The mother of the author, Dave McCann, who was befriended by Patti Edwards over the years.

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What they’re saying

“There is not a day or night I don't think about LaVell.”

— Patti Edwards (Deseret News)

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

— Maya Angelou, American poet (Deseret News)

The takeaway

Patti Edwards' legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. Her warm, welcoming spirit and ability to make everyone feel special are a testament to the power of simple acts of kindness, which can have a lasting impact on a community.