On June 14, 2025, the Southern Illinois University (SIU) community lost a beloved figure, John Loren Roseberry, who passed away at the age of 88 at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale.
John was a dedicated supporter of SIU’s softball program, serving as a friend, mentor, and positive influence on players, coaches, and fans.
His legacy, built on generosity, loyalty, and a deep love for the Salukis, will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the facilities he helped create at Charlotte West Stadium.
Born On September 24, 1936, John Lived A Life Rooted In Passion And Connection
A Carbondale resident, he found joy in simple pleasures like fishing, but his true calling was his commitment to SIU softball.
For over two decades, John was a fixture at Charlotte West Stadium, cheering from the stands, traveling to away games, and even joining team meals.
His presence was a source of comfort and inspiration, making every player feel seen and valued.
Coach Kerri Blaylock, who considered John a dear friend, shared her grief on social media:
She recalled how John’s contributions transformed the program, from the padded outfield wall to the scoreboard and bullpens at Charlotte West Stadium.
His support rose to the indoor turf facility at the SIU Recreation Center, ensuring players had a space to train year-round.
Yet, John never pursued the spotlight for his generosity; he simply wanted to see the Salukis thrive.
John’s contributions to SIU softball spanned 24 years, beginning with his first gift in 2001.
Over that time, he donated over $800,000 to the program, including a significant planned gift of $600,000 to be used at the discretion of the head coach to maintain the program’s excellence.
These funds have left a lasting impact, enhancing facilities and supporting the team’s pursuit of excellence.
On October 8, 2022, John was honored with a plaque recognizing his loyal support, a moment that celebrated his quiet but huge impact.
John was a valued member of the Saluki softball community, building personal connections with every player and their families.
Assistant Coach Jen Sewell described him as “an incredible friend” who traveled miles to watch the team play and joined them for meals and events.
“It just won’t be the same this fall when we look up at practice and he’s not sitting in his chair taking it in. I hope he has the best seat in the house for next season. He was a good man and he was great for the sport of softball and our team – we look forward to honoring him and celebrating his time with us.”
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John’s warmth and kindness left an everlasting mark on everyone he met.
Former player Emma Austin remembered him as “one of the brightest SIU softball memories” for her and her teammates.
Whether he was cheering from across the field or flashing his bright smile between games, John embodied what it meant to play for something bigger than oneself.
Austin said-:
“John is a perfect example of what it means to want to go out there and play for more than yourself and play for those who will always show up for you, that’s exactly what he did for this program”
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Assistant Coach Mary Jo Firnbach, who returned to coach at her alma mater, called John “one of the best humans on the planet” for teaching her the true meaning of loyalty.
Katie Gribben Warwick, a fellow fan, described him as a “kind and gentle soul” with a rare ability to make everyone around him feel good.
Even those who knew him briefly, like a neighbor who praised his knowledge of fishing and lake conservation, felt the weight of his loss.
The News Of John’s Death Brought Many Heartfelt Messages Of Sympathy From The SIU Community And Others
The official SIU Softball shared,
” Roseberry made several donations to the SIU softball program, including the padded outfield wall at Charlotte West Stadium and the indoor turf at the Student Recreation Center.”
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His impact was felt not just in the facilities he helped build but in the relationships he nurtured over the years.
For over 20 seasons, players and their families came to know him as a constant source of encouragement.
His love for the sport and the Salukis was unmatched, and his absence will be deeply felt when the team takes the field next season.
To celebrate John’s life and legacy, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the SIU Recreation Center Alumni Lounge.
The event will bring together those who knew and loved John to share memories and pay tribute to his contributions.
Coach Blaylock encouraged the community to spread the word, ensuring all who knew John could join in commemorating his outstanding life.
As the Saluki softball team looks ahead, they do so with John’s spirit in their hearts.
His generosity, loyalty, and love for SIU softball will continue to inspire players and coaches for years to come.
John L. Roseberry’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in every game played at Charlotte West Stadium, every practice on the indoor turf, and every player who steps onto the field knowing they had a champion in John.
Rest in peace, John—you were a good man, and you were great for Saluki softball.
