Carbondale Reporter

Longtime supporter of the Southern Illinois University (SIU) softball program, John L. Roseberry, has passed away. Roseberry was known for his generous contributions to the program, including funding for the padded outfield wall at Charlotte West Stadium and indoor turf at the Student Recreation Center.

Head coach Jen Sewell expressed her sentiments: "John was not just a gracious donor to our program - but an incredible friend. He knew each player and their families, he traveled for miles and miles to see us play and often attended our team meals and events throughout the years. Over 20 seasons of players and their families came to know John. He was a constant in our program and we miss him dearly. 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."

Roseberry's first donation to Southern Illinois was made in 2001, and over 24 years, he contributed more than $800,000 to the softball program. This includes a $600,000 planned gift intended for use at the head coach's discretion to maintain excellence within SIU softball.

He supported nearly every home game of the Saluki softball team and occasionally joined them on road trips as well.

On October 8, 2022, Roseberry received a plaque recognizing his loyal support of Southern Illinois softball.

Emma Austin shared her memories: "Throughout my time at SIU, one of the many people I had the blessing of meeting was John Roseberry," she said. "Whether that was seeing him in the stands during practice and yelling as loud as I could at him across the field or seeing his bright smile in between games, he was without a doubt one of the brightest SIU softball memories I, my teammates, and the parents could've had. 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."

Southern Illinois University extends its condolences to Roseberry's family and friends.