Jim Dennison, a Hall of Fame football coach for The University of Akron and Walsh University and athletics director, whose impact on college sports in northeast Ohio spanned decades, died peacefully on Sunday.

Dennison passed away early Monday morning, according to his family. He is remembered not only for his success on the field, but for his lifelong philosophy of PMA: Positive Mental Attitude, which became a defining part of his coaching legacy.

Dennison served as head football coach of the Zips from 1973 to 1985, leading Akron to the 1976 NCAA Division II National Championship game and the program’s first 10 win season. That year, he was named Kodak National Coach of the Year. Over his career at Akron, Dennison coached or recruited dozens of All-Americans and conference standouts, finishing with an 80-62-2 record, the most wins in program history at the time.

Beyond football, Dennison also served as Akron’s athletics director, helping guide the university’s transition from Division I-AA to Division I-A and playing a key role in Akron’s move to the Mid-American Conference.

After leaving Akron, Dennison continued his legacy at Walsh University, where he served as head football coach and athletics director. During his time with the Cavaliers, he led the program to 14 winning seasons and compiled a 119-77 record. Across 31 seasons as a collegiate head coach, Dennison amassed 208 career wins.

Dennison is survived by his wife, Sue, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, Jan. 8, at Auble-Hilliard-Rospert Funeral Home in Wadsworth. A funeral service is scheduled for Jan. 9 at The Chapel in Wadsworth.