SALISBURY, N.C. (July 10,2026) - It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that Livingstone College shares the passing of our beloved student-athlete, Gabriella Muñoz, a rising junior from Katy, Texas, and a cherished member of the Blue Bear softball family.
Gabriella represented the very best of Livingstone College. As No. 55 on the Blue Bear softball team, she embraced her role as a versatile utility player with determination, resilience, and an unwavering team-first mentality. While her athletic abilities made her a valuable competitor, it was her bubbly personality, gentle spirit, and genuine kindness that truly distinguished her. Her infectious smile, positive outlook, and caring heart brought light to every room she entered and left a lasting impression on teammates, coaches, classmates, faculty, staff, and friends.
Beyond the softball field, Gabriella exemplified the highest standards of academic excellence. She earned Dean's List honors during both semesters of the 2025–2026 academic year, achieving a 4.0 GPA each semester while maintaining an impressive 3.75 cumulative GPA. Her academic success was further recognized through her selection as a Livingstone College Board of Trustees Scholarship recipient. Gabriella embodied the ideals of a true student-athlete, balancing the demands of collegiate athletics with outstanding academic achievement while approaching every opportunity with humility, grace, and quiet determination.
Softball Head Coach Steve Wallace reflected on Gabriella's extraordinary impact: "I am completely heartbroken by the passing of Gabriella. She was a complete joy to have as a part of the program. A great athlete and an even better student. The program will miss her immensely and her absence will be felt."
Coach Wallace's words reflect what so many came to know about Gabriella. Her legacy is defined not only by the number she proudly wore, the position she played, or her accomplishments in the classroom, but by the encouragement, friendship, laughter, and kindness she shared so freely with others.
Although Gabriella's time with us was far too short, her impact will endure. She leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, athletic determination, unwavering kindness, and Blue Bear pride that will continue to inspire our community for years to come.
