Nicholas Eddy Sr.

1944 - 2025

Nick Eddy, husband, father of four, grandfather to nine, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025 surrounded by the enduring love of his wife, Jean (Tiny Ender), and his family by his side. He was deeply loved and will be remembered by all who knew him.

Nick was known early in life for his athletic talent and determination. As a football player at Tracy High School, he distinguished himself through his natural athletic ability, discipline, grit, and a deep commitment to teamwork. Through the endorsement of a teacher and coach at Tracy High School, he was recruited by the University of Notre Dame playing for Ara Perseghian and helping the team earn a National Championship in 1966. His performance that year put him in the running for the Heisman trophy. The Detroit Lions drafted him where he proudly played for seven years, fulfilling a dream that reflected years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

While football was an important chapter of Nick's life, it was only one part of who he was. Beyond the stadiums and statistics, he was a devoted father and friend, a man of presence and conviction whose strong faith was shaped by both triumph and hardship. He carried that same dedication into his roles as a father, teacher, and coach. Whether at home in Michigan; on the football field at Central Catholic High School; watching volleyball at UC Davis; attending track meets at Modesto Junior College; or teaching at Modesto High School, he was guided by compassion and a belief in discipline, strength, and determination-the same qualities he embodied as a Fighting Irishman and a Detroit Lion. A Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, president of the Rotary Club, and president of the San Joaquin County Notre Dame Club, Nick valued service and community. Those who knew him beyond the field understood his complexity, resilience, and the endurance with which he faced life's challenges. He admired those same qualities in others, making him a devoted fan of the Olympic Games. At the heart of all he gave was kindness.

As a teacher and coach, he had a profound impact on countless students and athletes, inspiring them to strive for excellence both on and off the field. His dedication to instilling values of discipline, resilience, and integrity, not through words alone, but by example, shaped the lives of many young people. He showed up with presence, compassion, and a steady belief in their potential, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.

Beyond Nick's numerous accomplishments, the truest measure of who he was is best reflected in the profound love he shared with his family. Nick and Jean, high school sweethearts, enjoyed a remarkable love story that spanned over six decades. Their 60-year marriage was anchored in deep friendship, shared faith, and unwavering commitment. From the very beginning, they chose each other, navigating through seasons of joy and challenge, triumph and hardship, and building a life characterized by loyalty, devotion, and grace. Together, they created a nurturing home filled with warmth and stability, providing a strong foundation for their children and grandchildren. Jean was not only Nick's greatest support but also a constant source of strength, exemplifying what it means to love with patience and devotion.

His children and grandchildren were the greatest joys of his life. Whether cheering from the sidelines, offering guidance in quiet moments, or simply being present, his love was constant and unwavering. His legacy lives on through them-in the values he inspired, the lessons he shared, and the imprint he left on their hearts.

A celebration of Nick's life will take place on:

Friday, February 20, 2026

7 PM - Rosary

Location: Holy Family Church, 4524 Tully Rd, Modesto, CA 95356



Saturday, February 21, 2026

11 AM - Funeral Mass

Location: Holy Family Catholic Church, 4524 Tully Rd, Modesto, CA 95356

12 PM - Celebration of Life at CCHS Glynn Hall, 200 S Carpenter Rd, Modesto, CA 95351

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Nick's name to The Central Catholic Foundation (209) 524-6822, and the Knights of Columbus Council, Pope John Paul II Council #14123 (209) 360-5377, https://square.link/u/oCoJtLwx, both in Modesto, CA.

Nick will be remembered for his strength, his kindness, and the deeply human story of a man who loved well and lived with conviction. He is survived by his wife, Jean, his children, Nicole, Nick, Alicia, and Angel; his grandchildren who he adored, Keaton, Justin, Jake, Luke, Dax, Sam, Zach, Evan, and Brady; his step-grandchildren, Jasmine and Jeremy; and his step-great-grandchildren, Jack, Beckham, and Brynn.