Joe Paterno’s sons Jay and Scott have released statements on the passing of their father.
Jay Paterno:
A special thanks to the Hospital staff. They helped us all through the past few days. Can not begin to express our gratitude …
Our family thanks Penn Staters, students & all people for prayers & support for my Dad. He felt your support in his fight.
Scott Paterno also thanks the hospital staff, then goes on:
We would also like to thank all of the tens of thousands of people who have been praying – your kindness continues to sustain us.
Finally, to Penn Staters, past and present, know that Dad loves you all and has always loved being part of your family.
Joe Paterno died at 9:25 Sunday morning of lung cancer. He was 85. His passing came two months after being fired from his job as Penn State’s head football coach after Penn State judged he did not do enough to stop alleged child abuser Jerry Sandusky. Paterno won 409 games as Penn State’s head football coach. He and his wife had five children: Jay, Scott, Diana, Mary Kay and David.