Alvin Dale Lollie

Alvin Dale Lollie, affectionately known to many as “Yogi,” of Binghamton, New York, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026 at Mercy House in Endicott, New York. He was 75 years old. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend, Alvin was a larger-than-life presence whose impact will be felt for generations. To countless young people across the Southern Tier and beyond, he will always be remembered simply as “Coach Lollie.”

Born on April 17, 1950, in the Village of Delhi, New York, Alvin was raised on a small dairy farm alongside his parents, Columbus and Sadie Lollie, and his five siblings.

Alvin committed himself to both education and service. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the State University of New York Empire State College. His professional life was dedicated to helping young people with more than 30 years of service at the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. Alvin earned several distinctions and honors for his outstanding work, including the Commissioner’s Award for Leadership, until his retirement in 2011.  

While his professional work supported families of New York, his passion lived on the football field. Alvin was a fierce and respected linebacker for the TC Jets, proudly wearing number 63, and later became a beloved coach whose influence extended far beyond wins and losses. He coached at multiple levels for more than 20 years, including Binghamton North, Seton Catholic Central and Susquehanna Valley High Schools, mentoring countless athletes and building lifelong relationships. He was also deeply involved in local sports organizations, advisory boards, and community initiatives, frequently serving as a motivational speaker and personal trainer to young athletes, including several well-known local standouts. His friendships with fellow players and coaches, many of which spanned decades, were among his most treasured connections.

Alvin’s contributions to semi-pro football earned him induction into the American Football Association’s Minor League/Semi-Pro Hall of Fame, a recognition he wore with pride, symbolized by his Class of 1998 Hall of Fame ring. After serving as defensive coordinator during multiple stints with the Jets, Alvin was named the 2002 Empire Football League Coach of the Year as the head coach of the Broome County Jets. Following his coaching career with the Jets, Alvin served as a Deputy Commissioner of the Empire Football League. Beyond coaching and playing football, Alvin found joy on the golf course, where competition and camaraderie continued to bring him happiness. He was an avid fan of the New York Football Giants and enjoyed attending games with his children and friends.

At the center of Alvin’s life was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Mary Ellen (Costello) Lollie; his children, Shannon (Dave) Walker, Tia Lollie, Alvin Lollie II, Terrence (Brittney) Lollie, and Megan (Joe) Glassey; and his cherished grandchildren, Brayden, Ethan, Amelia, Sadie, Ezra, Meadow, and Maya, and his canine best friend, Chance. He is also survived by his siblings, Shirley and David (Deborah), nieces and nephews, Jerneyl, Derrick (Lisa), Adrian (Andrea), Marcel, Jasmine, Elijah, Eric, Trystram, Cara (Nate), Bob (Gina), Kelly, Chelsea (Kavon), Kristine (Ben), Samm, Malachy (Luz) as well as six great-nieces, and five great-nephews who loved him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents Columbus and Sadie, and siblings William, Phyllis, and Christine.

Yogi will be remembered for his commitment to young people, his belief in second chances, and his ability to see potential where others might not. His legacy lives on through the lives he shaped, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. Up to his final days, Alvin’s humor and his abiding love and appreciation for those who cared for him never wavered.

The family extends our deepest gratitude to the medical staff at Robert Packer Hospital who never ceased to be amazed at the strength and personality Alvin showed as a patient, as well as to the staff and volunteers at Mercy House who provided a beautiful and compassionate home for Alvin to be surrounded by family at the end of his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 N. McKinley Avenue, Endicott, New York 13760.

GO GIANTS!

Service Details:
Visitation: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 11 am - 1 pm
Thomas J. Shea Funeral Home
137 Robinson Street, Binghamton, NY 13904
 

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