MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The city of Memphis is reeling after the tragic loss of Jarmond Johnson, a 25-year-old Memphis Rox employee, who was killed in a shooting at the popular Soulsville climbing gym on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
Jarmond, remembered by those who knew him as kind, humble, and deeply dedicated to uplifting others, had worked at Memphis Rox for several years. His passion for climbing not only changed his own life but inspired many in the community. Family members say Jarmond began climbing to turn his life around—and that he did. His journey took him across the globe, scaling peaks in Africa, Antarctica, and beyond.
“He was a good soul,” a close relative shared. “He worked hard for everything he had. He wasn’t just climbing mountains — he was climbing toward something greater every day. He kept people calm, avoided conflict, and wanted peace for everyone around him.”
Jarmond’s life was also entering a new chapter — he was expecting his first child.
The shooting occurred Sunday afternoon inside Memphis Rox, following an argument that escalated into violence. Jarmond and another man, who has not yet been publicly identified, were both fatally shot. Memphis Police are continuing to investigate the incident.
In a statement released Monday, Memphis Rox confirmed that Jarmond was an employee and expressed deep sorrow:
“Our hearts are shattered. Jarmond was more than a team member — he was family. His spirit, laughter, and compassion filled our gym every day. We are mourning this senseless loss and holding his loved ones in our hearts.”
Out of respect for the victims and their families, the gym closed its doors on Monday to give staff and community members space to grieve.
Jarmond’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across Memphis. Friends and former colleagues have remembered him as someone who led by example, quietly mentoring youth, lending a hand without being asked, and living with extraordinary grace and resilience.
“He had this way of making people feel safe and seen,” one friend wrote online. “He was always lifting others up, even when he was quietly carrying his own weight. He deserved the world.”
As Memphis continues to process this devastating loss, Jarmond Johnson will be remembered not only for the summits he reached, but for the lives he touched with his strength, warmth, and unwavering spirit.
May he rest in peace — and may his legacy live on in every heart he inspired.
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