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NATCHEZ — The Cathedral School community is mourning the death of Coach Mark McCann.

Cathedral officials announced on its Facebook page Monday morning that McCann had died. Those close to him said he had been battling cancer.

“He was a great man and a man that would do anything for anybody,” said Cathedral Coach Craig Beesley.

Beesley said McCann began coaching at Cathedral in January 1993 and coached football and baseball.

“I will always remember how he had a nickname for everybody, a nickname for all the kids at the school,” Beesley said.

Comments about McCann on the Cathedral School Facebook page show an outpouring of love for McCann and his family.

“Coach was dedicated to our Cathedral family for many years and put a smile on so many faces. We are grateful for the gift he was to us and the model of kindness he leaves us,” said school officials.

“He was truly one of a kind,” said Suzanne Guido. “Always a smile and a kind word for everyone he met. Prayers for his family.”

“What a special and wonderful man and life he dedicated to his family, Cathedral School, and every student he ever encountered. May you rest in eternal peace,” said Marla Martin Farmer.

Ann Elizabeth Kaiser remembered McCann for the love he showed to children.

“Prayers for Pam (McCann) and family. We will always remember Coach McCann and the kindness and love for our children he showed to them and to us parents,” Kaiser said.

“He meant so much to our school and community,” said Emily Stevens Atkins. “His loss will be felt for a long time. So thankful to Pam and the family for sharing him with all of us for so long. Continued prayers for his family and all of our little CHS babies who will be so sad at the loss of their favorite teacher.”

“His presence and booming voice through the halls of Cathedral made being friends and working with Mark so enjoyable. He was truly one of a kind and was loved by so many. He will be missed,” said Lucy Tempel Little.

“Was a joy to have known him. Always a smile. Praying for the McCann family and our CHS family as well,” said Monique Norman-Brown.

Funeral services for McCann are on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Basilica. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m.