In a heartbreaking turn of events, Sonny Smart, the father of University of Georgia head football coach Kirby Smart, has passed away. He died early Saturday morning due to complications from hip surgery, following a fall in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve. Sonny was in town to support his son during the Sugar Bowl game.
A Tragic Accident
Sonny Smart, who was 76 years old, faced a serious health challenge after he suffered a fractured hip from his fall. This accident occurred while he was in New Orleans to cheer on his son’s team. Tragically, complications arose after his hip surgery, leading to his untimely death. Many in the sports community are mourning the loss of a man who touched countless lives through his passion for football.
A Life in Coaching
Sonny was more than just Kirby’s father; he was a respected coach in Georgia for many years. He began his coaching career in high school football in 1988 and retired in 2003. He led teams at Bainbridge High School and Rabun County High School, where he made a lasting impact on many young athletes. In fact, Kirby played under his father at Bainbridge, and their bond over football is something they cherished deeply.
Community Reaction
The news of Sonny Smart’s death has left a wave of sadness throughout the state and beyond. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp publicly expressed his condolences on social media, praising Sonny for his character and contributions to the sport. Local coaches and former players have also shared their fond memories, highlighting Sonny’s coaching style and dedication.
Family Support
During this difficult time, Sonny was surrounded by his loving family, including his wife Sharon and his children, Kirby, Karl, and Kendall. Their support for one another has been a testament to the strong family values that Sonny instilled in his loved ones. Kirby often spoke about the life lessons he learned from his father, which shaped him into the well-respected coach he is today.
Legacy of Sonny Smart
Sonny Smart is remembered not just for his role as a father and husband, but also as a mentor to many young athletes. His dedication to coaching and the positive influences he made in the lives of his players will be his lasting legacy. The Smart family has expressed gratitude to the staff at Ochsner Hospital for their care during this challenging time.
Final Thoughts
The Smart family is asking for prayers and support as they navigate this profound loss. It’s important to remember the impact that Sonny had on the community and the strong impression he left on so many. As tributes continue to pour in, it’s clear that Sonny Smart will not only be remembered as a dedicated coach but also as a loving father and friend to many.
