Mr. John A. O'Linger

John O’Linger, 74, died Friday evening at his residence with his daughter (Saint) Cindy by his side. John was a center on Coach Bear Bryant’s first national championship team at the University of Alabama. John was born in Scottsboro, Alabama to the late Bose and Elizabeth O’Linger. He had an incredibly loving family that included 12 brothers and sisters. He is survived by, Virginia Guerra, Murfreesboro, TN, Winnie Jean Holland, Creek Town Al, Barbara Blevin, Guntersville, AL, Elizabeth Williams, Elkmont AL. He is also survived by his 2 daughters Cindy Ricketts and Kim Daseke. There are 7 grandchildren that were blessed to have him as a grandfather, Michael John Daseke II, Matthew William Daseke, Austin Thomas Ricketts, Kathryn Elizabeth Daseke, Trammell Bryant Ricketts, Morgan Priscilla Ricketts, and Madeline Leigh Ricketts. John has numerous extended families. He was preceded in death by his Wife Margie O’Linger; and sisters Pauline Grider, Louise Amaya, Sybil Durham, and Maxine George. His brothers are Bose Olinger Jr. , Scottsboro, AL, Billy Olinger, Fackler AL, Eddie Olinger, Guntersville, AL. His brother Jerry O’Linger proceeded him in death. John was recruited by the University of Alabama in 1958 along with the late Pat Trammell who was his dear friend and teammate. It is here that his life was forever changed with tremendous life lessons and amazing friendships that could never be replaced. In 1961 the National title under Coach Bryant was won, an event never forgotten and often spoken about by John. Upon graduating at Alabama John coached in various cities around Alabama including Minor, Gadsden, and Anniston. After a satisfying coaching career he worked for Roadway Express where he would later retire. He spent his retirement happy fishing, golfing, and of course watching Alabama football. Even after diabetes robbed him of both his eyesight and both legs John did not give up on life. He was and is a bright spot in so many lives even if you only encountered him once or twice. He will be terribly missed in a world that needs many bright spots. My Dad was a great player in the game of life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Alabama "A" Club Educational and Charitable Foundation P.O. Drawer 1961 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403-1961.

Mr. John A. O'Linger

January 8, 1938 - December 14, 2012