Patric D. Simon

First Quarter - The Opening Drive (Formation & Foundation)

Every life has a beginning shaped by those who stand it upright. For Patric David Simon, who was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on August 30, 1954, the true cornerstones were his mother, Laura Sykes whose quiet strength endured through illness and his older sister, Bernetta Wilkes, who helped carry the weight of responsibility while his mother navigated life with multiple sclerosis, Bernetta played a central role in his upbringing, helping to shape his character, resilience, and sense of duty to others. Together, they formed the foundation of who he would become, long before he ever led a team. Pat took great pride in education including earning a B.S. in Physical Education from Johnson C. Smith University, and an M.A. in Education from Clark Atlanta University.

Second Quarter - The Long Drive (Stewardship & Scope)

Before collegiate sidelines and administrative offices, Pat devoted more than a decade to public education, serving as a teacher, coach, athletic coordinator, and assistant principal.

As an athletic director and senior administrator, Patric was entrusted with programs across the country, including Saint Paul’s College, Lincoln University, Cheyney University, Langston University, Tuskegee University, Allen University to name a few. In each setting, he strengthened academic support systems, modernized facilities, elevated institutional visibility, and insisted on accountability at every level.

Halftime - The Reflection (Recognition & Respect)

Throughout his career, Pat was recognized for outstanding leadership, service and earned many distinctions.  Yet, his greatest pride was in the programs he stabilized, and the young people who left his care better prepared for life than when they arrived. He was also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Third Quarter - Building the Momentum (Calling, Character & Care)

Although he had no biological children, Pat lived a life marked by fatherhood in its truest sense. He was a steady presence and guiding force to countless athletes. He corrected when needed, encouraged when it mattered, and remained after the seasons ended. His love was consistent, and his belief in others unwavering. It was for this reason that many of these young athletes didn’t call him “Coach Simon” or “Mr. Simon,” but chose instead to call him “Pops.”

Fourth Quarter - The Finish (Legacy & Completion)

On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the final whistle sounded, signaling the end of his earthly season of play not in defeat, but in completion. A life well played now rests in the record books where true impact is measured not by wins alone, but by the lives he impacted.
He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Laura Sykes, and former wives, Ida Ballard Simon and Cynthia Sellers Simon. Left to cherish his memory and continue his legacy are his loving “little big sister,” Bernetta Wilkes, and “the apple of his eye,” his niece, Angel Wilkes, along with an extended family of friends, former athletes, coaches, colleagues, and all whose lives he impacted.

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