TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- John Servati, a 21-year-old University of Alabama swimmer, died late Monday during the severe storms that swept through the state, a UA spokesman confirmed.

Megan Brantley, a spokesperson for the city of Tuscaloosa, said early Tuesday that Servati, who had yet to be identified at the time, was killed when a retaining wall in the basement of his 22nd Avenue residence collapsed on him.

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Alabama swimmer Anna Rae Gwarjanski called Servati a "hero," as his actions allowed his girlfriend to escape without any injuries.

Alabama coaches met with members of the swimming and diving team early Tuesday as news spread of Servati's death. A prayer service was held later in the morning at Calvary Baptist Church -- just a stone's throw away from Alabama's Aquatic Center.

"John Servati was an extraordinary young man of great character and warmth who had a tremendously giving spirit," Alabama coach Dennis Pursley said in a university statement. "During this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to all who had the good fortune to know him. He will forever be in our hearts and a part of the Crimson Tide legacy."

Servati, who came to Alabama from Tupelo, Miss., was a three-time SEC Academic Honor Roll member -- receiving his most recent honor just four days ago -- and carried a grade point average of better than 3.55 while majoring in finance. He competed in three events at the 2013 SEC Championships.

"John definitely had a genuine heart," Alabama captain Phillip Deaton said. "He was a carefree guy who always had this huge smile on his face. He was my training partner for three years and I can tell you that while he liked to goof around and have fun, when he stepped up on the block he was intensely focused - he was a competitor and an amazing teammate. As a team, we are doing the best we can right now."

Setting multiple state records, Servati helped lead his Tupelo High team to four consecutive Mississippi State championships. The 10-time state champion was named the Tupelo Sports Council Athlete of the Year in 2007 and 2010.

Servati is survived by his parents,

Janet Gaston and Albert Servati, and sisters Sarah and Catherine.

"We are all saddened to learn of the untimely death of John Servati," Alabama athletics director Bill Battle said in a university statement. "He was a model student-athlete who excelled in his sport of swimming, his pursuit of excellence in academics, and his value as a son, brother, friend and teammate to all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to John's family and friends as we grieve his passing."