Oscar Warren Lofton

Oscar Warren Lofton, affectionately known as “Big O,” entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on January 4, 2026, surrounded by his devoted family. A faithful servant of God, husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and leader, Oscar lived a life rooted in faith, service, and obedience to God’s calling.

Born in McCall Creek, Mississippi, Oscar demonstrated discipline, perseverance, and excellence from an early age. He was a gifted three-sport letterman in football, track, and basketball. A proud graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, Oscar’s time there laid the foundation not only for his athletic success, but also for his lifelong commitment to mentoring young men through leadership and faith.

Oscar went on to play professional football for the Boston Patriots, now known as the New England Patriots. He made history by scoring the second-ever touchdown in franchise history on a memorable 60-yard catch-and-run. Despite his accomplishments, Oscar remained humble and consistently gave glory to God for every opportunity and achievement.

His calling extended far beyond playing the game. Oscar served as Head Football Coach at Hammond High School, where he led the program to a AAA State Championship in 1970, a testament to his leadership and ability to inspire young men. He later served as Athletic Director at Southeastern Louisiana University from 1979 to 1980, followed by his tenure as Head Coach from 1980 to 1985. He also contributed his expertise as a scout for the San Francisco 49ers, always viewing his work as ministry and his athletes as lives entrusted to his care. Oscar faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Army, exemplifying integrity, duty, and honor.

A devoted man of God, Oscar’s faith shaped every aspect of his life. He was actively involved in Gideons International, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the NFL Alumni Association, and the American Football Coaches Association. He passionately shared the Gospel, encouraged spiritual growth in others, and lived out his faith daily through service, prayer, and love. His life echoed the words of Scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” — Matthew 25:21

In recognition of his lasting impact, Oscar was inducted into the Istrouma High School Hall of Fame and the Southeastern Louisiana University Hall of Fame, honors reflecting both his excellence and influence as a godly leader.

Oscar shared a beautiful and enduring marriage with his beloved wife, Billie Jean Lofton. Married in 1961, they were faithfully united for 65 years, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family, and serving as a powerful example of Christian marriage.

Oscar is survived by his wife, Billie Jean Lofton; his three sons and their wives: Warren Kelly Lofton (Chrystal), Sean Andrew Lofton (Ya’el), and Evan Kyle Lofton (Tracey); his seven grandchildren: Christen Hyde (Matthew), Brent Gill (Danielle), Ashley Lofton, Brittany Ambrose (Arie), Lauren Lofton, Thomas Lofton, and Jordyn Lofton; and his cherished great-grandson, Lofton Hyde.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Lofton and Ruby Lofton, and his brothers, Melton Lofton and Herman Lofton.

Oscar Warren “Big O” Lofton leaves behind a powerful legacy of faith, love, and service. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the assurance that he has finished his race and now rests eternally with Christ. His life continues to testify that faith, when lived boldly, leaves an everlasting impact.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Oscar and Billie Jean Lofton Endowed Scholarship in Athletics (Football), which supports a Southeastern Louisiana University football student-athlete.

Memorial gifts may be made online at: www.southeastern.edu/memorial

Checks may be mailed to: SLU Foundation SLU 10703 Hammond, LA 70402 Please reference the Oscar Lofton Memorial Endowment Fund.

Services honoring the life of Oscar Warren Lofton will be held on January 8 and 9, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Ponchatoula. A Wake will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Parklawn Memorial Garden in Hammond.