John Mark Stallings 1962-2008

For anyone who is acquainted with Alabama football, especially during Gene Stallings time as head coach, they should know the name John Mark Stallings. He is the son of Gene and Ruth Ann Stallings and was one of the most avid fans of Alabama football and his father Gene's coaching.

John Mark was born with Down syndrome and his health has been fragile for years from coping with a congenital heart defect. He has continually been a source of inspiration for his family and Alabama fans. A very good discussion of what it was like to raise a child with Down syndrome was written by Gene Stallings in the book "Another Season: A Coach's Story of Raising an Exceptional Son."

A reporter from the Tuscaloosa News wrote a touching piece about Gene in September of 2006 saying that he may live in Texas, but he has a piece of Alabama with him. In the article they write about his Alabama memorabilia and the words 'Roll Tide' coming from John Mark's bedroom where they could hear the sounds of a recorded game between Alabama and Florida from the 2005 season. John Mark recalls the names of his favorite football players such as Jay Barker, David Palmer, Brodie Croyle and Mike Shula. But he saved his deepest reverence for those he considered the most important members of the team, the trainers.

Back in 2008 Gene talked about how his son changed his perception of football and his approach on the field, "I had a whole lot less tolerance for the gifted and a whole lot more tolerance for the guy that wasn't quite as gifted. With Johnny, I saw him struggle to walk, struggle to kick a ball, struggle to do everything that he did. So, I had a little tolerance for the guys that had to struggle. If you had talent and didn't lay it on the line, I didn't have much tolerance for you."

In December of 2005 the University of Alabama equipment room was formally dedicated the "John Mark Stallings Equipment Room." While some may not think this is much of an honor, it was deeply cherished by John Mark. Its a fitting tribute to an Alabama son who accompanied his father to every practice and game. He was even awarded a National Championship ring. I think Mal Moore could not have been more correct in his statement about John Mark's passing, "For someone who never played or coached a game, I think John Mark may have touched more Alabama fans than any other person ever did. I would like to thank the Stallings family for sharing their love for John Mark with all of us."

After nearly 40 years of coaching, Stallings announced he was retiring in 1997. John Mark's reaction was to burst into tears upon hearing the news.

John Mark was 46 years old and an Alabama fan through and through until his passing. The 'Bama Nation truly lost a friend and brother.