University of Richmond Linebacker Jackson Thorne’s mother, Holly “Hol” Zungali, 42, Passed Away, leaving a Courageous Legacy

Holly's most significant legacy is the love she gave so freely.

December 2, 2026

This article was last updated by Rohit Maharjan on December 2, 2026

Holly “Hol” Zungali passed away after facing years of medical challenges at the age of 42, surrounded by her loving family on November 27, 2026.

She was the mother of Jackson Thorne, a linebacker from the University of Richmond.

Holly Haefner graduated from Pittsford Mendon High School in 2002 and attended George Mason University in Virginia.

She established herself as a Talent Acquisition and Recruiter, amassing over 15 years of experience. Her expertise included providing tailored recruiting solutions, technical recruiting, and optimizing applicant tracking systems for a wide range of industries.

In a prior leadership role at StratasCorp, she directed talent acquisition strategies to solve complex hiring challenges.

Her approach had always been to build long-term partnerships, empower teams with the right talent, and align hiring practices with the company’s mission to drive results.

Moreover, she took a bold entrepreneurial step by founding HJH Recruiting in May 2026.

Also, see: Meadowbrook Baseball Player John McCullough Dies From a Cardiac Event, at 17, Leaving Behind His Parents, Shawn and Nina, and His Sister, Sophia

Forever “Hol”: Joyful, Courageous Holly Zungali Dies at 42, Leaving Legacy of Love and Laughter

Holly “Hol” Zungali passed away peacefully at the age of 42, on November 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was the beloved daughter of Chris Haefner and Diane Relyea and the late Jan Haefner.

Holly was born on December 5, 1983, in Rochester, New York, and was raised outside the city.

Her vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on the world. She was a radiant beacon, known for her infectious laughter and strength.

She found profound joy in life’s simple pleasures, including long walks, pushing herself in a good workout, sharing deep laughter with friends, and cheering passionately from the sidelines for her sons on the football field.

Her happiest moments were often spent in the kitchen, creating delicious treats for her cherished family and friends.

Sadly, Holly faced years of medical challenges.

However, she met each day with extraordinary courage and an unwavering determination to reclaim her health, all while maintaining the joyful, loving spirit that defined her.

She carried a deep passion for fashion, creativity, and travel, with family trips to the Outer Banks holding a special place in her heart.

Her devoted husband, Michael Zungali; her cherished sons, Jackson Thorne and Logan Zungali; her parents, Chris Haefner and Diane Relyea; and her siblings, Melissa Emerson, Kit Haefner, Jake Purcell, and Cody Haefner, survive her.

Similarly, she shared a close bond with a wide circle of extended family and dear friends who will forever feel her absence.

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One of her best friends, Stephen Bilko, has created a GoFundMe fundraiser to help the Zungali family for the long days ahead, without their successful, wildly caring, holiday-obsessed Mom and wife.

All the raised funds will directly go to Holly’s husband, Michael, for their family.

The Zungali family will hold a memorial service in Northern Virginia to celebrate Holly’s remarkable life in early Winter.

Her warmth, strength, and love she shared will continue to inspire and comfort all who were blessed to know her.

Rest In Peace, Holly “Hol” Zungali.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Jackson Thorne arrived with a strong high school pedigree from Independence to the Richmond Spiders.
• He stands 6’3″ tall and weighs about 236 pounds.

• Check other Articles on
• Holly "Hol" Zungali
• Jackson Thorne

Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.

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