UPDATE: Coach Joe Paterno Has Died

UPDATE: After some confusion yesterday, the Paterno family, according to the AP, has released a statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Joe Paterno passed away earlier today.” Joe Paterno was the winningest coach in major college football.

Previous updates follow.

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There are several reports out saying that former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno is near death and his family is now by his side at the hospital. From The Citizens Voice:

Former Penn State coach Joe Paterno is near death, a source confirmed to The Citizens’ Voice.

Paterno’s wife, Sue, summoned close friends and longtime staff members this afternoon to the State College hospital where Paterno has been undergoing treatments since last weekend.

Paterno wanted to see them and say a final goodbye, Sue told one of the staff members, the source said.

There is also a report on SBNation which says Paterno’s health is failing:

Former Penn State head coach Joe Paterno’s battle with lung cancer reportedly took a turn for the worst on Saturday as his health continued to fail him. Rumors have picked up significantly as the day has worn on, culminating in a report detailing his grave condition this afternoon.

I don’t think any comment is necessary other than if these reports are true, I wish him and his family peace at this time.

UPDATE: The Huffington Post is reporting that Joe Paterno has died of lung cancer at the age of 85. They have updated this report to reflect conflicting reports.

UPDATE II: There are conflicting reports now about the death of Joe Paterno.  AP is reporting that a family spokesperson has denied that Paterno died. 

UPDATE III: OK, it appears that Joe Paterno is NOT dead. His son Jay tweeted this 4 minutes ago: 

I appreciate the support & prayers. Joe is continuing to fight.