The Bay College community is mourning the unexpected death of Head Softball Coach and Compliance Director John Garris, who passed away suddenly on Friday. His death has left a deep void in the athletic department and the lives of those who knew him both on and off the field.
“Bay College and Norse Athletics is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Coach Garris,” said Norse Athletic Director Matt Johnson. “In his short time here, he showed his passion and enthusiasm not only for the game of softball, but for life in general. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.”
John Garris joined Bay College in August 2024, bringing with him not just a wealth of coaching experience but also an infectious enthusiasm and deep care for his players’ growth—both as athletes and as individuals.
Bay College President Dr. Nerita Hughes described Coach Garris as a light in the campus community.
“Bay College has experienced a huge loss with the passing of Coach Garris,” Dr. Hughes said. “He brought a sense of pride, great enthusiasm, and uplifting energy to both our campus and our athletic department. His passion for student success was evident in everything he did—always going above and beyond to ensure our students felt supported and valued. His warm smile and unmistakable Southern drawl will be profoundly missed by all.”
Garris’s impact extended far beyond his coaching. Former players and colleagues shared stories of his unique mentorship, unwavering support, and ability to inspire greatness in others.
Kendall Watson Gall recalled how determined he was to help her become a better hitter—even using soda bottle caps with numbers written inside as a creative drill.
“He sat there and tossed them at me for hours, and I had to call out the number before I could fully swing,” she wrote. “Later that year, I hit my first home run. Big John was one of those people that left your heart smiling after you heard from him.”
She went on to share a touching memory from her high school graduation: “I look out to find my family in the crowd and see someone else, squeezed into my family row in between my grandparents and my parents… It was John. He told me he wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
Fellow coach and close friend Anthony Mason was devastated by the news.
“Garris was and is the kindest human being I have ever met. Words cannot begin to describe the shock I’m in right now,” Mason wrote. “DAMN, this hurts.”
The loss of Coach Garris marks the third Bay College employee death this year, making the news especially difficult for the close-knit college community. Faculty, staff, and students are being encouraged to support one another and lean on campus counseling resources as they grieve.
Bay College expressed its deepest condolences to the Garris family and all who were touched by his compassion, leadership, and love for the game.