Ollie Renn Jarvis
July 17, 1943 – December 19, 2024
Ollie Renn Jarvis, of Buxton, NC, a beloved coach, loving father and husband, successful businessman, dedicated teacher, and inspiring role model, passed away on December 19, 2024. Born on July 17, 1943, in Petersburg, Virginia, Ollie lived a vibrant life of 81 years, marked by a legacy of passion, commitment, and kindness that inspired countless individuals.
A standout athlete during his high school years at Petersburg High School, Ollie excelled in multiple sports. He played JV baseball and basketball from 1958 to 1959 and was the quarterback for the football team from 1959 to 1962. He also played varsity baseball from 1960 to 1962 and was a co-captain for the American Legion Post 284 out of Colonial Heights, Virginia, leading them to great heights in national competitions. Notably, Ollie was awarded MVP in the Southeast region in 1961 and was recognized by Sporting News magazine as one of the best players in the southern states.
After graduating from Petersburg High School in 1962, Ollie attended East Carolina University on a baseball scholarship from 1962 to 1967. He was an incredible shortstop with a batting average of .316 and was instrumental in setting a lasting double-play record in the Valley League with his team. His tenure at ECU was marked by consistent regional championship appearances, and in 1963, his team won the Southern Conference Championship. He was a proud member of the Lambda Chi Fraternity during his college years.
Despite being offered a professional baseball contract with Cincinnati, Ollie chose to pursue a broader path that would allow him to share his love of sports and education with others.
Ollie worked at Boeing Aircraft for three years before continuing his legacy in sports. Returning to his roots, he joined Petersburg High School as a teacher and coach, driven by the desire to mentor young athletes just as his mentor, Bobby Churn, had done for him. His coaching prowess was evident when Petersburg High clinched the state championship in football in 1979. More importantly, Ollie’s unwavering commitment and dedication shone brightly through his work with children, both on and off the field. As a coach, teacher, and father figure, his influence was immeasurable, nurturing young minds and spirits with profound care and devotion.
After meeting Kathleen Dillon while drum fishing on Cape Point, Ollie embarked on a new adventure by moving to Buxton, North Carolina, in 1983 to marry the love of his life and start their family. Together, they built their tackle shop business, Dillons Corner, named in honor of Kathleen’s roots. He dedicated much of his time to coaching and developing sports programs in Dare County. He served as the Parks and Recreation chairman for three years, where he was actively involved in a variety of sports for not only his children but their friends and all the children of Dare County. He was instrumental in bringing the Little League Babe Ruth World Series to the county. He founded the first Hatteras Pop Warner football team, leading to the establishment of football teams at both the middle and high school levels in Cape Hatteras. His first year coaching ended with an undefeated county record. Ollie also coached middle and high school softball, football, and baseball at Cape Hatteras, as well as high school football at Manteo High School, where he led the team to runners-up for the state championship.
One of Ollie’s most admirable qualities was his commitment to treating everyone with absolute fairness and kindness. Regardless of a person’s background, race, gender, age, or beliefs, Ollie approached each individual with an open heart and equality. He had a special knack for noticing those who felt out of place, ensuring they were welcomed and cherished. Truly one in a million, he was the kind of person who would literally give the shirt off his back to support anyone in need.
Ollie was a beloved figure in his community and amongst his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pansy Mae Renn Jarvis and Clay B. Jarvis, Sr., and his brother, Pat Jarvis.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Ormand Dillon Jarvis; his daughters, Kristen Jarvis and Caroline Jarvis Hopkins and her husband Mack; his cherished grandchildren, Talan Ross, Isabella Ross, and Levi Hopkins; his sister, Della Hathaway (Gene); Tara Dove, who he considered a daughter; and Ricky Hunley, who he considered a son.
A funeral service to celebrate Ollie’s life will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, December 23, 2024, at Buxton United Methodist Church. The family welcomes friends and relatives to gather and share memories prior to the service from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. A private family graveside committal will be held at the Miller Family Cemetery.
Ollie’s legacy of community involvement, passion for sports, and dedication to his family and friends will continue to inspire all who knew him. His memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of his loved ones and the community he served so fervently.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
