Josh Prybyla, Beloved coach of Maimonides Baseball Has Died

The Maimonides School community and countless others are mourning the tragic passing of Coach Josh Prybyla, a beloved figure whose passion for baseball, dedication to teaching, and genuine love for his students and players left a lasting legacy. His death earlier this week has left an indescribable void in the lives of his family, friends, colleagues, and the many young people he mentored over the years.

Josh was more than just a baseball coach. He was a mentor, a role model, and a constant source of encouragement for those around him. His approach to coaching extended far beyond the game itself—he focused on building character, instilling values, and teaching life lessons that his players will carry with them forever.

A Beloved Coach at Maimonides Baseball

At Maimonides, Coach Prybyla was deeply respected and admired for his unwavering dedication to the baseball program. Players recall his patience, his motivating spirit, and his ability to push them toward excellence while always showing compassion.

He wasn’t just concerned with wins or statistics—he cared about the boys themselves. He wanted them to grow into confident, respectful, and resilient young men. His players often described him as a father figure, someone who always believed in them even when they doubted themselves.

A memorable moment that truly captured his character was the speech he gave at Ezra’s funeral, where he spoke with honesty, compassion, and deep understanding. He knew Ezra in a way that few others did, and his words brought comfort to grieving hearts, reminding everyone of the beauty of friendship, mentorship, and community.

Another cherished memory is a video of Prybyla teaching Hillel in 8th grade, which perfectly demonstrates the qualities that made him an extraordinary teacher. His ability to connect with students and inspire them through both knowledge and kindness defined his career and his life.

Education and Career Path

Born and raised in Puyallup, Washington, Josh Prybyla’s journey reflects both ambition and service to others.

• He attended Gov. John Rogers High School, where his love for sports and teaching first began.
• He pursued Business studies at Stetson University, gaining the skills and knowledge that would later inform his career.
• His desire to continue growing led him to the New England School of Law, where he studied law and honed his understanding of leadership, justice, and advocacy.

While he had the credentials to pursue multiple careers, Josh found his greatest joy in teaching and coaching. His academic background gave him the tools to succeed in many areas, but his heart was always with his students and athletes.

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A Life in Boston, with Roots in Washington

Though originally from Puyallup, Washington, Josh eventually made his home in Boston, Massachusetts, where he became a cherished part of the community. Boston provided him the space to thrive as both a professional and a mentor. Friends, colleagues, and students alike admired his warmth, humor, and dedication.

Yet, even with his accomplishments and experiences, Josh never forgot where he came from. His values, shaped by his roots in Washington, combined with his experiences in Boston, made him a well-rounded and deeply respected figure.

The Impact He Left Behind

The loss of Coach Prybyla is being felt deeply by everyone who knew him. Students remember him as someone who never gave up on them, even when they struggled. Parents admired the way he invested in their children—not only teaching them baseball or academics, but guiding them through life’s challenges.

His colleagues saw him as a natural leader, a professional who balanced authority with compassion, and a teacher who went above and beyond for his students. His ability to connect with people on such a genuine level set him apart from others.

The outpouring of grief on social media has been immense, with former players, friends, and community members sharing stories of how Coach Prybyla touched their lives. Words like “selfless,” “inspiring,” “compassionate,” and “irreplaceable” appear again and again, reflecting the profound mark he left behind.

A Legacy That Will Live On

Although his passing has left the community brokenhearted, Coach Josh Prybyla’s legacy will endure. His teachings, his mentorship, and the values he instilled in others will continue to ripple through generations. Every student he taught, every player he coached, and every person he inspired will carry forward his lessons of perseverance, kindness, and love.

In the words of one of his players: “Coach Prybyla didn’t just teach us how to play baseball—he taught us how to be better people.”

Final Thoughts

The death of Coach Josh Prybyla is a devastating loss, but it is also a reminder of the incredible impact one person can make in the lives of others. His journey from Puyallup to Boston, from student to coach, from teacher to mentor, was filled with purpose and passion.

As the Maimonides community and all who knew him grieve, they also celebrate the gift of having known such a remarkable man. His memory will continue to inspire, guide, and strengthen those he left behind.

Rest in peace, Coach Prybyla. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.