RIP Ruth Mary Saban Pasko! It’s a heartbreaking day for the Nick Saban fam, as the legendary coach Nick Saban lost his mother on August 29th.

The Tuscaloosa News was the first to share the obituary, giving a full tribute to her life. Soon after, the University of Alabama also expressed their condolences, saying, “Thoughts are with the Saban family.” 

Despite the sadness, Nick Saban remained focused on his professional commitments. He appeared on the August 30th Pat McAfee Show, speaking with West Virginia quarterback Pat White, showing his strong face to the public. Now, Nick Saban hasn’t made any official statements on his mom’s passing. But his daughter, Kristen, posted a touching pic on Instagram with a photo of her grandma.

Well, Ruth Mary was born in Michigan but spent much of her early life in Farmington, West Virginia, where she met and married Nick Saban Sr. She was a high school cheerleader, and Even her obituary described her as “an avid sports fan.”

Now, as college football gears up for Week 1, her loss is felt deeply by the entire community. With Alabama set to take on Western Kentucky tomorrow, this news is a significant blow on the eve of a big game. Yesterday, even the Crimson Tide remembered their ex-coach’s mom. They simply wrote, “Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Saban family,” showing their respect. 

With the game set at Bryant-Denny Stadium, where a field was recently named after Saban, it’s likely the Alabama team will pay tribute to Mary Saban, too. She was, after all, the constant driving force behind the GOAT coach.

The woman behind Nick Saban

Mary Saban was a true boss lady, even decades ago. She and Nick Saban Sr. owned and ran the Saban Gulf Service Station and a restaurant while raising their son, Nick. Well, over time, Nick Saban rose to become a legendary coach, spending 17 years in Tuscaloosa.

Nick even fondly recalls a day at the Alabama facility when his mom called out of the blue just to brag about her golf skills. The then 81 years old, Mary Saban joked, “I just wanted to let you know I just made a hole-in-one, and you’ve never made one.” Nick laughed, remembering how she “called me during practice” to tease him. Her playful challenge may have sparked Nick’s competitive spirit, as he has since recorded two holes-in-one. Looks like mom’s mission was accomplished!

Now, the Saban family isn’t just about football. They started the ‘Nick’s Kids Foundation’ to honor Nick Saban’s dad. It started in Michigan and has grown a lot since then, helping out communities in Louisiana and Alabama. And according to Ruth Mary Saban’s obituary, “Those who wish to express sympathy [can] consider donating to Nick’s Kids Foundation.” Well, a noble move amidst distress!