The college football community is heartbroken over the loss of legendary coach, Lou Holtz. He passed away at the age of 89 on March 4, 2026. The former coach, who led the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team to a national championship in 1988, spent years shaping teams and players. After his demise, attention has turned not only to his professional career but also to his personal life and family. Lou was married for nearly six decades and raised four children while balancing the high-pressure demands of college coaching. Here’s what we know about his family.Â
Who was Lou Holtz’s wife?Â
Lou Holtz married Beth Barcus in 1961. It began their enduring partnership that lasted almost 59 years. Beth used to support Lou’s professional endeavors as a coach and took care of the family across different states as he led multiple college football programs at different points in his career. Beth was also renowned for her philanthropy. According to statements from the University of Notre Dame, she was a supporter of charitable work at until the time of her death in 2020 owing to Cancer. At the same time, Beth played a role in promoting education and community initiatives.

