Remembering Fr. Richard Cobb, S.J.

It is with profound sadness that we share the news that Fr. Richard Cobb, S.J. passed away this morning at the age of 94.

For generations of Bells, Fr. Cobb’s presence made Bellarmine a warmer, kinder, and more joyful place. Whether you knew him as your English teacher, your coach, your retreat leader, your admissions counselor, your chaplain, or simply the smiling Jesuit who greeted you by name at countless school events, you knew someone who genuinely delighted in being with others. He had an extraordinary gift for making every person feel seen, welcomed, and loved.

Fr. Cobb’s connection to Bellarmine spanned nearly seven decades. He arrived as a Jesuit scholastic in 1957 and spent years teaching, coaching, working closely with first-generation college applicants, and representing Bellarmine with warmth and enthusiasm in the Admissions office before eventually dedicating himself full-time to adult spirituality. Even in his final years, Fr. Cobb remained a familiar and beloved presence at Bellarmine, between casual visits to campus and community-wide events.

In the words of BCP President, Chris Meyercord ‘88: “Those who knew Fr. Cobb will remember his wonderfully dry sense of humor, his gentle wit, and the unmistakable twinkle in his eye—especially when he was playfully teasing his dear friend, Fr. Jerry Wade, S.J. Most of all, they will remember his kindness. Fr. Cobb possessed a remarkable ability to make every encounter feel like a blessing. He was humble, generous, deeply faithful, and wholly devoted to helping others recognize God’s love in their own lives.”

A Funeral Mass for Fr. Cobb will be held on Bellarmine's campus on Friday, July 24 at 5 PM.