A longtime NCAA coach and a father of five has died "unexpectedly" at 39 years old.
Jack Roney, a former NC State swimmer and assistant coach, passed away on July 5. He had just celebrated his 15th wedding anniversary. Roney reportedly passed in a tragic, unexpected accident.
N.C. State Swimming confirmed his tragic passing.
“We mourn the passing of former assistant coach and Wolfpack alumnus Jack Roney,” NC State Swimming & Diving wrote in a statement shared on social media. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Roney family during this difficult time. His impact on our program and community will be remembered.”
Roney was a star at N.C. State, breaking the school’s 200-yard breaststroke record, holding it from 2008 to 2011, before becoming an assistant coach with the program.
He met his wife, Maresa, at N.C. State. She was also a swimmer for the school. The couple got married and had five children together.
“Jack lived life with enthusiasm and purpose. He loved his 5 a.m. CrossFit class at Triangle CrossFit, volunteered at Hope Community Church, served as the swim meet starter for the Hampton Ridge Swim Team, and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children at their games, meets, performances and activities,” his obituary states.
“Above everything else, Jack loved his family,” the obituary continued. “Being a husband and father was his greatest joy and highest calling. Every decision he made and every goal he pursued was rooted in providing for, encouraging, and loving his family.”
A specific cause of death for Roney has not been released. Reports suggest that he died unexpectedly from a tragic accident.
A GoFundMe has been set up by friends and family members for his wife and children.
“Just days after celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary, Maresa lost her husband, Jack Roney,” the fundraiser message states. “Jack was a true Wolfpacker, a man of Christ, and a beloved father, friend, and husband. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the love he shared with his family and community.”
