WELCH, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Mount View and broader Bluefield communities are mourning the loss of a beloved mentor, coach, and friend. Coach Kelvin Lamarr “Top” Dubouse, 42, passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Welch Community Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration, grit, and unwavering love for the game of football — and for the people he mentored along the way.
Born on July 29, 1982, in Welch, West Virginia, Kelvin, known by many as “Top,” was a proud graduate of Mount View High School. There, he excelled as a football standout before continuing his playing career at West Virginia University. His deep love for the game never wavered, and he went on to play semi-professionally with the Bluefield Barons, earning MVP honors at the Casino Bowl.
Coach Dubouse’s coaching career was just as impactful. He served as a special needs teacher and football coach at Graham High School in Bluefield, Virginia, and more recently returned to lead the Mount View Golden Knights. Known for his fierce dedication, Coach Dubouse didn’t just build athletes — he built character. His players often said he taught them how to face life’s toughest battles, not just win on the field.
“Kelvin lived and breathed football,” said a close friend. “He was either playing it, talking it, or encouraging others to keep their heads in the game.”
Coach Dubouse was a role model whose influence extended far beyond the field. He was a member of Mt. Zion Church of Christ, where he once shared his talent as a singer in the choir. His work history also included roles with Cole and Ramey Automotive Groups, as well as serving as a correctional officer at Stevens Correctional Center.
He is remembered for his deep devotion to family, his community, and the young people he coached and mentored. His warmth, humor, and dedication left an imprint on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Kelvin is survived by his parents, Margaret M. Dubouse and Darryl “Pete” Brown Sr., his children — Jashawn Collins, Giovanni and Xavier Dubouse, and Lydia Hughes — his fiancée Alexis Alley, brothers Mark (Kelly) Dubouse and Darryl “Giz” Brown Jr., and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, and the countless athletes who called him “Coach.”
A Celebration of Life was held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Bob N. Jack Auditorium at Mount View High School in Welch. Services are entrusted to Gregory-Page Funeral Home.
Coach Dubouse’s legacy is a testament to the power of mentorship, love, and leadership. He will be forever remembered and deeply missed by all who had the honor to be in his presence.
Rest in power, Coach “Top.”
