Gregory John King of Alamosa passed away unexpectedly in Lakewood, Colorado, on July 26, 2025. Born in Walsenburg, Colorado, on December 21, 1953, he was the third of seven children in the King family. After attending St. Mary's School early on, Greg then attended and graduated from Walsenburg High School in 1972. He then pursued further education at Lamar Junior College and Adams State College, graduating in 1977.

Greg was a true sports enthusiast, both as a player and a coach. He spent countless summers playing competitive fast-pitch softball, but coaching captured his heart. Over the years, Greg coached various prep sports, with football and basketball reigning supreme. His coaching, teaching, and athletic director journey took him to schools in McClave, Stratton, Del Norte, Grand Junction, Norwood, La Veta, Sargent, and Alamosa. Greg's coaching achievements were impressive, including five 8-Man football championships and basketball titles, with both boys' and girls' teams. When asked about his success, he would smile and say, "Good kids!" Greg's football teams won 131 games, and his combined basketball teams amassed 740 victories. He had an incredible knack for recalling the details of nearly every game he coached.

Throughout his career, Greg was honored with numerous awards, with his induction into the Colorado High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame standing out as one of his proudest moments. In 2024, he was inducted into the National Coaches Hall of Fame, a testament to his dedication and passion for coaching. Known for his friendly demeanor and extensive connections, it was rare for Greg to be somewhere without bumping into someone he knew. His commitment to his athletes went beyond the court or field; he truly cared about their well-being. Greg cherished every relationship and loved being called "Coach."

Family meant everything to Greg. His son, Cameron, was his greatest joy, and their time together—especially coaching side by side at Norwood and Sargent—filled his heart with pride. In March of 2024, Cameron welcomed his wife, Samantha, into the family, bringing a new set of memories and adventures. An annual trip to the Final Four became a beloved tradition.

Growing up in a large family, Greg often reminisced about making ravioli and tortellini for Thanksgiving and shared fond memories of visiting Grandma Gregory at the creamery. He loved recounting backyard ball games and trips to Denver and Pagosa Springs to visit family. Greg held deep pride in his siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In 2001, Greg began a relationship with Jill Downie, and together they enjoyed more than 20 years. Their annual trips to the Final Four and the Fiesta Bowl were always highlights, and they enjoyed many road trips exploring national parks and other sites. Concerts and trips to the Dakotas for fishing and visits to the family farm created cherished memories. During the school year, they were often found cheering on young athletes at various sporting events. They enjoyed each other's company and conversation, valuing each moment spent together.

Greg leaves behind his wife Jill, Alamosa, son Cameron, and Cameron's wife, Samantha, Del Norte. He is also survived by his brothers Scott (Lourae) King, La Veta, Emmett (Adele) King, Colorado Springs, and Everett King, Denver, along with his sisters Nancy (Ray) Bustos, Walsenburg, and Frances (Doug) Dominguez, Grand Junction, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and their children. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his sister, Gail King Miller.

In memory of Greg and his dear friend Erik Melgoza, a Memorial Scholarship is being established. Contributions can be made to the Greg King and Erik Melgoza Memorial Scholarship at Alamosa State Bank or through Rogers Family Mortuary.

There will be a memorial service for Coach King on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 10 a.m. at the Alamosa High School, 805 Craft Drive, Alamosa CO 81101. Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes and words of comfort for Greg's family please visit www.RogersFunerals.com