The swimming and diving community across the Southeast is in deep mourning following the tragic passing of John “Jack” Dunbar Roney. A record-holding former NC State student-athlete, assistant coach, and beloved youth mentor, Roney passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the age of 39. His passing was linked to severe injuries sustained in a tragic drowning accident on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
A native of West Palm Beach, Florida, who resided in North Carolina, Jack had just celebrated his 15th wedding anniversary with his wife, Maresa, days before the accident. He leaves behind his wife and their five young children.
| Parameter | Verified Biographical & Athletic Details |
| Full Legal Name | John “Jack” Dunbar Roney |
| Life Timeline | July 29, 1986 – July 5, 2026 |
| Age at Passing | 39 Years Old |
| Origins / Residence | West Palm Beach, Florida / North Carolina |
| Location of Accident | Hilton Head Island, South Carolina |
| Primary Cause | Complications and injuries resulting from a drowning accident |
| Alma Mater / Team | NC State University (Wolfpack Swimming & Diving Alumnus) |
| Professional Roles | Former NC State Assistant Coach, Youth Coach at Raleigh Swimming Association (RSA) |
| Spouse | Maresa Roney (Married 15 Years) |
| Children | Gunnar, Scout, Beau, Archer, and Crew |
A Wolfpack Icon: Excellence in the Water and on the Deck
Jack Roney leaves a profound, indelible imprint on the NC State Swimming & Diving program. As a competitive swimmer for the Wolfpack, his absolute discipline, perseverance, and explosive speed made him a record-holder and an ultimate competitor. His sister, Amber Moore, recalled their former coach’s reflection on Jack’s athletic breakthrough:
“I called Coach on Monday and he said, ‘Man, your brother really made me look good. One day he just took off and it was never the same. He was fun to watch.’ We all loved watching you swim, watching you race.”
After his collegiate racing career concluded, Jack transitioned his immense competitive drive onto the pool deck, serving as an assistant coach for NC State. He later expanded his leadership into youth sports, acting as a prominent coach for the Raleigh Swimming Association (RSA), where he became an indispensable male role model and mentor to young athletes.
On Monday, July 6, NC State University issued an official public memorial honoring his enduring impact:
“We mourn the passing of former assistant coach and Wolfpack alumnus Jack Roney. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Roney family during this difficult time. His impact on our program and community will be remembered.”
“The Glue of the Family”: Tributes from Loved Ones
Beyond his elite athletic resume, Jack was known above all else as a deeply devoted Christian, a steadfast husband, and a profoundly present father who led his five children with active love and infectious humor.
His sister, Katie Corum, expressed the overwhelming weight of the loss:
“Some losses are just too heavy for words. My little brother, John ‘Jack’ Dunbar Roney, was taken from us far too soon. He was an amazing man who loved his wife and kids more than anything in this world. They were everything to him… Grief is the price we pay for loving someone so deeply. Right now, this pain feels never ending, but it also reminds us just how lucky we were to have had Jack in our lives.”
His sister Amber added:
“How are we supposed to move forward without you? Every single day, you worked to become a better man. So few people live with that kind of purpose, but you did. You were never satisfied with standing still… You were a devoted Christian who gave freely of your time and your heart. You were an INCREDIBLE husband, a father who led with love, you were our brother, and a son.”
Mobilizing Support for the Roney Family
To assist his wife, Maresa, as she faces the monumental journey of raising their five children—Gunnar, Scout, Beau, Archer, and Crew—and covering unexpected childcare, daily, and educational expenses, a community GoFundMe campaign has been established. Reflecting the immense respect the community held for Jack, the fund has already rapidly raised over $69,000.
The fund directors shared a statement emphasizing his lasting impression:
“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… As Maresa works to provide for her children, she needs help with daily expenses, childcare, and ensuring her kids have the opportunity to pursue their education and dreams.”
Information regarding formal memorial services, North Carolina visitations, and celebration of life protocols will be shared once finalized by the family. Jack’s legacy of continuous self-improvement and profound love will carry on through his family and the thousands of athletes he inspired.