A tight-knit New Jersey community is mourning the loss of a beloved high school football coach and teacher after he was found dead in his Jeep following a week of frantic searching.
Stephen Iannotti, 72, was discovered in a remote area of Cumberland County roughly a week after he was reported missing on Christmas Day. Authorities confirmed his death but have not released a cause, saying there is no indication of foul play at this time.
Iannotti coached freshman football and taught at Kingsway Regional High School, where generations of students and fellow educators say he was far more than just a coach. Since the discovery of his body, tributes have flooded social media from former players, students, and colleagues remembering a man known for his patience, generosity, and quiet leadership.
“Steve was a joy to work with,” one fellow teacher wrote online. “He truly cared about his students and the people around him. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.”
Former students echoed that sentiment, with one writing, “He was one of my favorite teachers at Kingsway and just an awesome person. I’ll miss you, Mr. I.”
Another longtime colleague shared how Iannotti welcomed him into a shared classroom without complaint. “He guided me and showed me the ropes,” the post read. “So much of who I became as a teacher is because of Steve.”
Iannotti was reported missing after family members said they had not heard from him since Christmas Day. According to police, Ring camera footage from a neighbor showed him leaving his home around 12:45 p.m. on December 26. He was not seen again after that moment.
The Logan Police Department later revealed that Iannotti’s cell phone was found inside his home. Family members told officers it was not unusual for him to leave without it. Investigators also noted that his vehicle, a 1997 Jeep Wrangler, did not cross any bridges after leaving the area and that there was no activity on his bank cards.
Authorities have said they will not release further details out of respect for Iannotti’s family and privacy, and the investigation remains ongoing.
As the mystery surrounding his final days lingers, the focus in the community has turned to remembering the impact Iannotti made. A memorial service celebrating his life is scheduled for January 15 at Kingsway Regional High School, where students, athletes, and colleagues are expected to gather to honor a coach many say helped shape their lives both on and off the field.
Hope they find the perpetrator