Communities asked to light up baseball fields in honor of local coach

(NORTH VERNON, Ind.) – Local schools and communities are being asked to honor the life of BJ Singler on Thursday night. 

The Jennings County head baseball coach unexpectedly passed away at the age of 50 last week.

"BJ was many things to many people–husband, father, son, brother, coach, mentor, fan, and friend– but above all, he was someone who genuinely cared about people,” his family said. 

He not only coached the high school team, he also started the Panther Baseball Club, was co-owner of Ohio Valley Sports Productions and Premier Sports, was the Kentucky State and Southern Indiana Director of USSSA Baseball, a board member of Indiana Bulls Baseball, and a member of the Indiana High School Baseball Coaches Association. 

“Through every role, BJ continued doing what he did the best, bringing people together, opening doors for young athletes and giving his time, energy and resources to help others succeed,” his family said. 

Local schools, parks and communities are being asked to turn on their baseball field lights on Thursday night to honor him

“A simple gesture for a man whose impact will continue to shine,” they added. 

Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church in North Vernon from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the church.