The National Office has received information that USA Softball of Georgia Commissioner Ernie Yarbrough passed away on October 17, 2026. Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and the softball community during this difficult time.
Ernie Yarbrough (1949-2026)
Ernie Yarbrough dedicated decades of service to the sport of softball, helping develop young athletes and strengthen the game throughout Georgia and beyond. He began serving as the USA Softball of Georgia Junior Olympic Commissioner in 2017 before being named Commissioner in December 2023. Throughout his time, Yarbrough worked to support athletes, coaches and officials while expanding opportunities for youth softball across the state.
Yarbrough’s contributions to USA Softball also extended to the national level, where he served as an assistant coach for the 2019 USA Softball U-15 Women’s National Team. The team captured gold at the Pan American Championship in Lima, Peru, adding to Yarbrough’s legacy of supporting and developing athletes on the international stage.
A passionate advocate for youth softball, Yarbrough was one of the founders of the Atlanta Vipers and established Georgia Power Softball Club in 2009. Through these organizations, he helped create opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills, build character and pursue their goals of competing at the collegiate level. His commitment to the game extended beyond the field, emphasizing education, personal growth and the importance of preparing athletes for success beyond softball.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 14, 2026, from noon to 1 p.m. at Rising Hills Church in Canton, Georgia. A celebration of life will follow at Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton.
Yarbrough’s dedication to USA Softball and his lasting contributions to the development of young athletes will be remembered throughout the softball community. His legacy will live on through the players he coached, the leaders he supported, and the opportunities he helped create for future generations of athletes.