Oklahomans Remember Beloved Teacher & Coach Who Died From COVID-19

Towns across the state grieve as they continue to see their loved ones die and the death toll in Oklahoma continues to rise.

Ponca City Middle School teacher Charles Wylie lost his life to COVID-19. He was a reading teacher.

"(He was) such a caring, fun-loving teacher, who was admired by both staff and students," said Ponca City Public Schools Superintendent Shelley Arrott.

The school will have counselors on hand for those in need.

In southwest Oklahoma, Barry Foster was a coach who spent years teaching, training and supporting young minds.

He was one of the legendary coaches inducted into the Oklahoma Coaches Hall of Fame. He also served as president and vice president of the committee.

For the past few days, thousands have stood by waiting for updates on their coach, but unfortunately, he passed away due to COVID-19 complications.

"I still can't believe it," said Todd Dilbeck, Foster's friend. "Coach Foster not only touched lives on the football field, basketball court or baseball diamond, but his philosophy was to make better men and women. He wanted them to be better husbands and wives."