As the Penn State community learned of the passing of Joe Paterno on Sunday, a number of former players and coaches reacted with public comments. Included among those statements were the sentiments of Jerry Sandusky, the former defensive coordinator facing multiple criminal charges for the sexual abuse of young boys both during and after his time on the coaching staff with Paterno. Sandusky issued the following statement on the death of Paterno:
"This is a sad day! Our family, Dottie and I would like to convey our deepest sympathy to Sue and her family. Nobody will be able to take away the memories we all shared of a great man, his family, and all the wonderful people who were a part of his life. He maintained a high standard in a very difficult profession. Joe preached toughness, hard work and clean competition. Most importantly, he had the courage to practice what he preached."
The Sandusky abuse scandal precipitated the removal of Paterno in November. It was announced shortly thereafter that he was suffering from a treatable form of lung cancer.