A celebration of life will be held in Oakland for Coach John Beam, who was fatally shot at Laney College after a 40-year career transforming athletes’ lives.
Celebration of Life for Coach John Beam Scheduled
OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) — A celebration of life will take place on Saturday for legendary Oakland Coach John Beam at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts.
Beam died on Friday, Nov. 14, after being shot the day before on the campus of Laney College, where he spent the last 20 years of his career.
Hundreds gathered on Friday night in Oakland to honor Coach John Beam, a legend who impacted many lives.
Loved ones remembered Beam as a larger-than-life personality. He helped countless athletes turn their lives around and was a “pillar” in the Oakland community. Beam was a football legend in the Bay Area and coached for over 40 years before becoming Laney College’s athletic director last year.
Outside the Bay Area, Beam is well-known from Netflix’s popular show, “Last Chance U.”
Beam is survived by his wife, two daughters, and granddaughters. He was 66 years old.
Summary of Coach John Beam’s Life
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | John Beam |
| Location | Oakland, Calif. |
| Date of Death | Nov. 14 |
| Age | 66 |
| Career Duration | Over 40 years |
| Last Position | Athletic Director at Laney College |
| Family | Wife, two daughters, granddaughters |
| Notable Show | Last Chance U |






