The Kennesaw State University track team is mourning the death of a freshman runner from Roswell.
Jonathan Garner, 18, died Friday of “unknown causes,” according to a press release from the Kennesaw State Athletic Department.
“I heard someone talk not long ago about how we give nicknames to those we love,” Kennesaw State track and field coach Andy Eggerth said. “We affectionately called Jonathan ‘Lil’ Johnny,’ but there was nothing little about him. Jonathan had a big heart, he ran big, and he had big things in store for him.”
Eggerth said Garner, who was a four-year track standout at Roswell High School, ” will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”
“In my short time with Jonathan, I developed a great relationship with him where I could be honest and give him a kick in the butt when needed, but then turn around and put my arm around his shoulder and crack a joke with him,” the coach said.
Garner, who was born in Chicago, is survived by his father, Michael, mother, Karon and younger sister, Taylor.
The funeral for Garner will be held Thursday in Walnut Grove, Miss. Kennesaw State is working with Garner’s family to hold an on-campus memorial service at a later date.
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