Raleigh Community and NC State Family Mourn the Loss of John “Jack” Dunbar Roney

The Raleigh, North Carolina, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of John “Jack” Dunbar Roney, who died in a drowning accident. His passing has left his family, friends, former teammates, and the NC State athletics community grieving the loss of a devoted husband, loving father, respected coach, and loyal friend whose influence reached far beyond the swimming pool.

Jack was widely known for his passion for swimming and his enduring connection to NC State. A proud Wolfpack alumnus and former assistant coach, he dedicated countless hours to mentoring student-athletes and supporting the program he loved. His commitment to the team, combined with his encouraging spirit and genuine care for others, earned him the admiration of athletes, coaches, and alumni alike.

Originally from Akron, Ohio, Jack attended Firestone Senior High School before continuing his education at the University of Tampa. Throughout his life, he remained committed to athletics, friendship, and family, becoming someone whose steady presence positively impacted everyone fortunate enough to know him.

NC State Swimming and Diving announced his passing with a heartfelt tribute, writing, “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.”

NC State head swimming and diving coach Braden Holloway also reflected on the tremendous loss, describing Jack as one of the rare individuals who made everyone around him better.

“Jack was one of those rare people who made everyone around him better,” Holloway shared. “He was an incredible friend, a devoted husband to Maresa, and an amazing dad to their five young children. He lived with kindness, loyalty, trust, and a deep love for his family—and a deep love for Wolfpack Sports.”

Holloway recalled Jack’s service as a volunteer coach during the season NC State captured the men’s ACC championship after his return to the program, remembering his unwavering support, belief in others, and lasting friendship.

“Jack cared deeply, showed up for people, and brought steady love and belief into every room he entered,” he wrote, adding that Jack’s legacy would continue through his wife, Maresa, their children, teammates, and friends.

Jack’s sister, Katie Corum, also shared a moving tribute, remembering him as a loving family man whose greatest joy came from his wife and children.

“My little brother, John ‘Jack’ Dunbar Roney, was taken from us far too soon,” she wrote. “He was an amazing man who loved his wife and kids more than anything in this world.”

She reflected on the deep pain of losing someone so beloved while expressing gratitude for the memories he created and the love he shared throughout his life. Katie also asked for continued prayers for their parents, Jack’s wife Maresa, and his five children—Gunnar, Scout, Beau, Archer, and Crew—as they face the difficult days ahead.

As tributes continue to pour in, friends and former teammates remember Jack not only for his accomplishments in swimming but for the compassion, humility, and unwavering kindness that defined his life. His influence will continue to be felt through the countless athletes he encouraged, the friendships he nurtured, and the family he cherished above all else.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, John “Jack” Dunbar Roney’s legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to family and community will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.