Southern Illinois coaching legend, 87-year-old Rich Herrin, died Friday night after a short illness.

Herrin’s coaching career began in Okawville. He then built a dynasty in Benton. He began coaching at SIU-C in 1985. He led the Salukis to several conference titles and was able to get the Salukis into several postseason tournaments. He coached at Marion High School for five years and finished his career at Morthland College in West Frankfort.

Private services will be held Wednesday in Benton. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.