Andy B. Young, III

Andy B. Young III, 76, of Clinton, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on November 4, 2026.

Born on December 6, 1949, in Greenville, South Carolina, Andy B. was the son of the late Andy B. Young Jr. and Nettie Young. He devoted his life to faith, family, education, athletics, and service to the Clinton community, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students, athletes, colleagues, and friends.

A proud graduate of Clinton High School, Andy B. continued his education at Erskine College on a tennis scholarship, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Health & Physical Education while also serving in the SC National Guard. He later earned a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from Clemson University laying the foundation for a distinguished career in education and athletics.

Andy B. began his career in education in 1972 at Martha Dendy Middle School, where he taught and coached football and basketball. In 1977, he returned to his alma mater, Clinton High School, beginning a remarkable career that would span more than three decades. Throughout his tenure, he served as a teacher, administrator, head tennis coach, assistant track coach, assistant football coach, head football coach, and athletic director. A Red Devil through and through, Coach Young's influence extended far beyond the classroom and playing fields, shaping the lives of countless young people through his example of discipline, perseverance, sportsmanship, and character.

His accomplishments as a coach reflected both his commitment to excellence and his passion for developing young people. Andy B. served as an assistant coach on four South Carolina state championship football teams and later led the Red Devils to a state championship as head football coach. Coach Young also guided the boys' tennis team to a state championship and coached numerous region championship teams throughout his career. In 2000, he was selected as assistant coach for the North-South All-Star Football Game and in 2004 as an assistant coach for the South Carolina Shrine Bowl. Coach Young was furthered honored with induction into both the South Carolina Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Laurens County Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2025.

After a career marked by dedication, leadership, integrity, and service, Andy B. retired from Clinton High School in 2010. Retirement, however, never diminished his passion for encouraging others. Whether offering advice, sharing a story, or supporting the next generation of coaches and athletes, he remained a mentor and friend to many.

A life-long member of First Baptist Church of Clinton, Andy B. was deeply committed to his faith and community. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he enjoyed an active and vibrant life filled with tennis, racquetball, golf, fishing, and, in more recent years, pickleball. Above all else, he treasured time spent with family and friends and found great joy in watching his children and grandchildren grow and succeed.

Andy B. is survived by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 56 years, Shirley Young; his children, A.B. Young IV (Joni Young), Mark Young (Robin Finley), and Janet Young (Chris Cash); and his cherished grandchildren, Andy B. Young V, Abby Young, Caroline Young, Rhett Baker, Cayden Young, Bryce Young, Alyssa Young, Preston Finley, Tanner Finley, Camden Finley, Kenzlie Cash, Bryson Cash, Kenna Cash, along with his two nieces and nephew.

In addition to his parents, Andy B. was preceded in death by his sister, Nanette Wilkie and brother in law Charles “Pete” Wilkie.

Those who knew Andy B. will remember his quiet strength, sneaky competitiveness, unwavering character, and genuine commitment to helping others succeed. As a coach, educator, and mentor, he often quoted his favorite Clinton High intangible.

"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog."

Andy B. believed that determination, resilience, and heart mattered more than circumstances. He challenged those around him to work hard, believe in themselves, and never back down from life's obstacles. Through his example and encouragement, he inspired generations of students and athletes to pursue excellence not only in sports, but in life.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Clinton. A service celebrating the life of Andy B. will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Blake Harwell officiating. Burial with take place at Rosemont Cemetery in Clinton following the service. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com 

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Gray Funeral Home of Clinton.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23