Former WVU Coach Bill Stewart has died of an apparent heart attack

Former West Virginia football coach Bill Stewart died this afternoon from an apparent heart attack according to a brief announcement by the University.

He was 59.

The University could not confirm any details of Stewart’s death, but according to West Virginia Metro News he collapsed while playing golf and was rushed to the hospital in Weston, W.Va.

Stewart had resigned as coach of the Mountaineers last June amid strife with the athletic department over the hiring of Dana Holgorsen as a coach in waiting.

Stewart, who went 28-12 in his three seasons, was named head coach at West Virginia following the departure of Rich Rodriguez to Michigan following the 2007 season.

The University relased the statement just before 3:20 p.m., and in the minutes since former players have flooded twitter with condolence messages.

* Former OL Don Barclay: "RIP coach stew .... What a great man he was and prayers out to his family"

* Former DE Bruce Irvin: "...My heart just dropped foreal...im speechless. RIP Coach Stew"

* Cincinnati Bengals CB Adam Pacman Jones, a former WVU player: "A sad day for all WVU fans and players, coach I will always love you, thanks for everything u have done for me. He help me with a lot"

*Former DL Julian Miller: "Man R.I.H to coach Bill Stewart...he was a great coach but even better man..and helped me realize how to be one as well!! #WestVirginia"