Students and staff at Bainbridge High School were left shocked and saddened by the sudden death of longtime staff member and assistant football coach Mike Roe.

Roe passed away in his sleep Thursday, Dec. 18. He was 61.

“Students and staff at the high school are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of yet another teacher, friend and colleague,” said BHS Principal Mary Alice O’Neill.

“Mike had a heart for every student, and championed their pursuit of all career paths. We are finding it hard to comprehend he is gone,” she said.

Roe was a learning resources specialist at Bainbridge High and had worked at the school for 37 years.

His wife, Tanya Roe, is one of two speech-and-language pathologists at Captain Charles Wilkes Elementary School.

Roe was a longtime librarian, teacher and coach at BHS.

According to the school district, he started as a language arts/social studies teacher at BHS in 1977 and spent his entire professional career in the district.

Most recently, he was an assistant coach for the Spartans varsity football team.

He also coached soccer in previous years.

“We are all shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of a friend and

colleague who devoted so much of his life to us and to our community,” District Superintendent Faith Chapel said in a message to district staff. “Our thoughts go out to Tanya, Garret and their family members and friends.”

“As we go our separate ways for winter break, I hope each of you will have the chance to spend quality time with family, friends and loved ones. Hold them close,” Chapel wrote in her message.

The Spartan football team was told of Roe’s passing during a special meeting early this morning at the high school.

BHS administrators said counselors will be available to support students, staff and families who want to talk about his passing and share their feelings.

Roe’s death follows the loss of two other beloved Bainbridge High teachers this year.

BHS tennis coach and teacher Mike Anderson died in a drowning accident Sept. 7.

Bob McAllister, a former English and drama teacher at BHS, died Aug. 18.