June 29, 2025

Charleston Mourning the Loss of Beloved Coach Oscar Fordham

News Summary

The Charleston community is grieving the loss of coach Oscar ‘Frizz’ Fordham, who passed away at the age of 98. Fordham was a significant figure in youth sports for over sixty years, influencing countless young athletes in basketball, baseball, and football at Harmon Park and McMahon Playground. His legacy as a mentor is immortalized by the fields named in his honor and an induction into the Charleston Baseball Hall of Fame. A wake and funeral service to celebrate his life are scheduled for July.

Charleston is in mourning following the passing of beloved coach Oscar “Frizz” Fordham, who died on June 24, 2024, at the age of 98. Fordham’s extensive coaching career, which spanned more than six decades, made him a revered figure in the Charleston community, particularly at Harmon Park where he worked with young athletes in basketball, baseball, and football.

Starting his tenure with the City of Charleston’s Recreation Department in 1960, Fordham continued to inspire and guide future generations of athletes until he retired for the final time last summer at the age of 97. His commitment to youth sports and mentorship earned him deep respect, evident in the naming of several fields at Harmon Park in his honor.

In addition to his contributions at Harmon Park, Fordham also coached at McMahon Playground, situated on the edge of Hampton Park. His impact was further recognized in 2021 when he was inducted into the Charleston Baseball Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the local sports community.

Former players reflect fondly on Fordham’s contributions, often highlighting the life lessons he imparted during his coaching. Many remember him for instilling values such as discipline, responsibility, and humility. His combative yet nurturing coaching style made him a father figure to countless athletes, including Jamar Washington, who now serves as an athletic director. Washington recalled how Fordham cared deeply for all his players, ensuring they felt supported both on and off the field.

Robert Pickering, who played under Fordham from the age of seven until high school, expressed gratitude for the coach’s legacy of servant leadership. Pickering noted that Fordham’s influence has shaped the lives of many, emphasizing the positive ripple effect of his mentorship.

The community’s grief is palpable, as many residents describe Fordham as a “legend.” His ability to connect with athletes across multiple generations has left a lasting impression on the Charleston area. Friends, family, and former players recount stories that illustrate Fordham’s unwavering dedication to the youth he coached.

In his later years, Fordham’s health began to decline, particularly affecting his ability to ride his bike—fondly referred to as his “Cadillac”—to work. Despite these challenges, his commitment to coaching and the community remained steadfast until his retirement.

To honor Oscar Fordham’s life and legacy, a wake is scheduled for July 4, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Emanuel AME Church. A funeral service will be held the following day, July 5, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Mother Emanuel AME Church, providing an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate the life of a beloved coach and mentor.

State Representative Wendell Gilliard expressed profound respect and gratitude for Fordham’s contributions to the community. Gilliard’s statement reflects a broader sentiment within Charleston, as many community members commit to honoring Fordham’s legacy by continuing his work in mentorship and athletics.

As Charleston remembers Coach Fordham, there is a shared understanding that his influence will continue to inspire future generations of athletes to strive not only for excellence in sports but also in their personal lives.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.