Bobby Bowden ‘At Peace’ With Terminal Illness

Longtime Florida State coach Bobby Bowden has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Bowden, who turns 92 years old in November, was hospitalized late last month but has since returned to his Killearn Estates home. Through his family, Bowden issued a statement saying he is “at peace” with the illness.

Bowden’s family did not disclose details relating to the illness, other than to say it is terminal. Bowden, the winningest coach in FSU history, has struggled with a variety of illnesses over the last several years.

Bobby Bowden

– Built FSU to the brand they are today.
– 377 Wins
– 2 National Championships
– 12 ACC Championships
– 14 Consecutive Top 4 Finishes
– Great man off the field, the character limit has to make me stop. Peace be with you and your family. pic.twitter.com/xI2oCrwf3l

— CFB Home (@CFBHome) July 21, 2021

“I’ve always tried to serve God’s purpose for my life, on and off the field, and I am prepared for what is to come,” said Bowden in a statement, per the Tallahassee Democrat. “My wife Ann and our family have been life’s greatest blessing.”

“I am at peace.”

Bowden was the head coach at Florida State for 34 years and led the Seminoles to two national championships – 1993 and 1999. Remarkably, the Seminoles had just one losing season with Bowden manning the sidelines. The losing season was his first in Tallahassee. Thirty-three straight winning campaigns followed.

Current Florida State coach Mike Norvell was among the first to react to the sobering news.

Praying for Coach Bowden and his entire family! Incredible man who is loved by so many and the Nole Family is with him. 🙏🏻

— Mike Norvell (@Coach_Norvell) July 21, 2021

Bobby Bowden’s 377 career wins are the fourth most all-time for a collegiate head coach. Thoughts and prayers are with Coach Bowden and his family during this time.