Pat Dye reportedly buried under tree he grew from cutting of famous Toomer's Corner tree
The Auburn family is mourning the loss of legendary coach Pat Dye this week, but the story has a beautiful ending.
According to Loran Smith of the Athens Banner-Herald, Dye was laid to rest under a special tree that he had been cultivating since 2013.
Per the report, Dye was buried in a simple white shroud under a tree he had grown from a cutting of a famous Toomer’s Corner tree after it was poisoned:
The tree was especial for Dye. He had gotten a cutting from the famous tree at Toomer’s Corner after it had been poisoned by an Alabama fan in 2013. Dye gave the tree special attention for over six years. It has now reached a height of at least 15 feet, Rane said late Tuesday.
Dye worked with the soil for most of his life, selling Japanese maples in recent years. This seems to be a perfect final resting place for the SEC legend.
Pat Dye cover photo by Al Blanton
Very fitting. I don’t understand about the shroud though. Does that mean he didn’t have casket or just that was what he was dressed in. Just curious. For that oak to be 15 feet high in 6.5 years is truly remarkable. He showed his love in that.
From what I understand, you’re right. No casket, just the shroud. The article linked in the story says that he wanted to fertilize the tree and have his spirit stay close to it.
He was buried in a simple pine box according to several of the pall bearers…Jimmy Rane, Rodney Garner, Bo Jackson, and others who have been interviewed. He had requested no embalming.
No casket. Only a shroud. They brought him in from mortuary in a casket and buried him without one.
Thanks Adam. Makes sense now.
Those Toomer’s Corner trees were more than just trees. They had history entrenched into them. Including that of Pat Dye’s legacy. I’m glad a few trees descended from those old trees. They each hold their own history. Pat Dye’s special tree holds the history of a great man. Rest in peace coach.
Don’t let Satan’s demons know where he is.