Bill McCartney, one of the most iconic figures in Colorado football history, was remembered with profound respect and admiration by the CU community. On a cold January evening, the University of Colorado (CU) family gathered at the CU Events Center, not in sorrow, but in celebration of a life that left an indelible mark on the state. McCartney, who passed away on January 10 at the age of 84 after a prolonged battle with dementia, was honored as more than just a coach—he was a mentor, a leader, and a man of unwavering faith.
The memorial event brought together generations of Colorado Buffaloes, including notable players like Mike Jones and Eric Bieniemy, who paid tribute to the legendary coach. CU Athletic Director Rick George and Dr. Raleigh Washington, a close collaborator of McCartney, shared heartfelt reflections on his extraordinary legacy. Mark Johnson, the voice of the Buffaloes, emceed the three-hour event, which was a blend of laughter, tears, and gratitude. The university’s Instagram encapsulated the sentiment best with the post: “Forever in our hearts.” For those in attendance, it wasn’t just a memorial; it was a reunion—a celebration of the community McCartney built.
Even Deion Sanders, the current head coach of the Buffaloes, paid his respects at the event, demonstrating humility and reverence for the coach whose shoes he is now attempting to fill. Among the attendees was 100-year-old Miss Peggy, a dedicated CU superfan, who joined countless others in honoring McCartney. The room was a testament to his influence, filled with people from diverse walks of life whose paths were forever changed by his guidance.
View this post on Instagram
McCartney’s legacy is perhaps best defined by the 1990 national championship season, a milestone that remains Colorado’s only national title. His team’s 11-1-1 record that year culminated in a victory over Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl, securing their place in history. But McCartney’s greatness extended far beyond the football field. He was a visionary who transformed the Buffaloes into a national powerhouse, recruiting top talents like Darian Hagan, Alfred Williams, and Michael Westbrook. More importantly, he was a mentor who instilled life lessons that his players would carry with them long after their football careers ended.
Off the field, McCartney was a man of deep faith. He founded the Promise Keepers, a Christian men’s organization focused on family, leadership, and spiritual growth. Dr. Raleigh Washington, who worked closely with McCartney on the initiative, described his leadership as transformative. Jon Embree, one of McCartney’s first recruits in 1982, reflected on his legacy, saying, “I think it’s a testament to what he was and what he did for everybody.” For his players, McCartney was more than a coach; he was a father figure and a role model whose impact transcended football.
The mourning of the CU community extended beyond the memorial. Social media posts honoring Coach Mac were flooded with heartfelt messages of love and respect. Comments like “RIP, Coach Mac” and “Rest in love, Coach Mac, the godfather of CU football” highlighted the depth of admiration for the man who shaped Colorado football. Another poignant comment read, “God blessed you, Coach Mac,” underscoring the spiritual connection many felt with him.
For Deion Sanders, McCartney’s legacy represents both an inspiration and a challenge. While Sanders has the talent and charisma to elevate the Buffaloes, replicating McCartney’s success is about more than wins—it’s about embodying the values, leadership, and passion that defined McCartney’s tenure. For the CU community, honoring Coach Mac’s memory through success on the field would be the ultimate tribute, ensuring his influence continues to inspire future generations.