Livingstone College is mourning the death of Gabriella Muñoz, a 19-year-old student and softball player who passed away on July 9 in her native Texas. The cause and manner of her death are pending, according to the Harris County Institute of Forensic Science in Houston.
Munoz, who wore No. 55 for the Blue Bears softball team, was remembered by the college as a versatile utility player who embodied a "team-first mentality." The school's statement highlighted her "bubbly personality, gentle spirit, and genuine kindness," noting that her "infectious smile, positive outlook, and caring heart" left a lasting impression on the campus community.
Livingstone College also took the opportunity to correct what it described as "false reporting" that Muñoz was on campus at the time of her death. College president Anthony J. Davis stated, "It is difficult to understand the insensitive actions that some will take during this time of our campus community grieving." The college's focus, he added, remains on honoring Muñoz's life and supporting those in mourning.
Muñoz was also a distinguished student, achieving a 4.0 GPA in both semesters of her sophomore year. She was recognized for her academic achievements 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," the school statement read.
Softball coach Steve Wallace described Muñoz as a "complete joy," a "great athlete and even better student." Muñoz played both pitcher and various position player roles during her two seasons at the private, Christian-based historically Black college in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Muñoz is survived by her parents, Brandon and Jennifer, and her siblings, Noah and Isabella. An obituary published by Schmidt Funeral Home in Texas noted that her "faith was the cornerstone of her life," and she found joy in her church's youth group and living by her faith. A celebration of her life was scheduled for Friday at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church in Katy.