John Lawrence Fritts

John Lawrence Fritts, 73, passed away on June 6, 2025, in Pinellas Park, Florida.   Born on November 5, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, John lived a life filled with passion for sports, deep connections with family and friends, and a remarkable ability to bring joy through storytelling. He was affectionately called “the Cat” by many of his closest friends.

John’s early years were spent in the Midwest, where he graduated from Peoria Central High School in 1970. He continued his education at St. John’s Junior College, earning his degree in 1972 before completing his studies at Memphis State University in 1974. His academic journey laid the foundation for a lifelong career dedicated to tennis-a sport that became both his profession and his passion.

Throughout his distinguished career as a tennis professional and coach, John left an indelible mark on the communities he served. He was a teaching tennis professional at the Ponte Vedra Club and held similar roles at Saddlebrook Golf and Tennis Resort and Lake Jovita Golf and Tennis Club. His expertise also led him to Harmony Landing Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky. Perhaps most notably, he served as the men’s tennis coach at the University of Louisville, where he mentored young athletes with dedication and skill.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was cherished for his vibrant personality and gift for storytelling. Those who knew him will remember countless hours spent listening to his vivid recollections-often humorous and always engaging-that brought people together in laughter and camaraderie. Whether on the court or off it, John had a way of making everyone feel welcome.

He found great joy in spending time with his golfing and tennis buddies over the years. A devoted sports enthusiast, John had an uncanny memory for sporting events; he could recall every detail of games he watched with astonishing clarity.

John is survived by his daughter Kym Savage (Todd); grandchildren Ashley, Jonah, and Jordan; great-grandchildren Jeremy and Colton; brother Steve Fritts (Carla); niece Emily Wirtzberger (Greg) and their children Alice and Luca; nephew Matthew Fritts (Jami) and their children Avery and Palmer; and niece Elizabeth Fritts. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence J. Fritts and Gloria S. Fritts.

John’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched-with each story shared in remembrance serving as a testament to the warmth he brought into the world.