MONTEVALLO, Ala. – The University of Montevallo and the Falcon athletic department mourn the passing of beloved university employee and avid athletics donor and supporter, Johnny Holsombeck.
 
Montevallo President Dr. John W. Stewart III announced the news in a campus-wide email, Monday, June 12 that is copied below.

"The Montevallo family is saddened by the sudden passing of Johnny Holsombeck, manager of the physical plant warehouse. Johnny was a kind-hearted soul who always had a smile on his face. He had a passion for supporting his friends on campus and in the Montevallo community. He was one of the strongest advocates for the Boys and Girls Club and supported youth sports in the community along with the UM athletic teams. Johnny was also an incredible cook and loved to prepare meals for Montevallo student-athletes, coaches and staff. Johnny joined the Montevallo campus in 2012 after a lengthy career in the restaurant industry, including owning and managing his own Double Play Sports Grill on Main Street after graduating from Jacksonville State University with a bachelor's degree in recreation management. In lieu of flowers, the Holsombeck family has requested donations to the Montevallo High School, Jacksonville State University and Falcon athletic programs. "

Johnny could commonly be found at many home athletic events cooking food for fans, alumni, coaches and student-athletes.
 
"The impact Johnny had on the athletic department is immeasurable," said Director of Athletics Mark Richard. "He was a friend of the department who touched the hearts of coaches, student-athletes and staff in many ways. He will be deeply missed."
 
"Johnny was such a special person in our community and I will miss him greatly," added Head Baseball Coach Chandler Rose. "Johnny loved life and wanted to help others more than anyone I know. He was so important to our program, a great friend and loved everything about Montevallo. I will miss seeing him on that outfield deck with the grill fired up."
 
"Johnny meant the world to our Falcon family," said Head Softball Coach Beth Wade. "His efforts behind the scenes are immeasurable.  Whether it was by way of holiday candy, gumballs, sandwiches, or crawfish, he brought our team comfort and love. The environment he created for UM players, coaches, and families to gather post-game was truly special.  No matter the situation, Johnny was someone we could always count on."
 
A visitation for Johnny will be held Friday, June 16, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at University Baptist Church, 160 Shoshone Drive, Montevallo, Alabama 35115, followed by a memorial service at 6:00 PM. 
 
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.rockcofuneralmontevallo.com for the Holsombeck family.