The University of Georgia has confirmed that Sonny Smart, the father of head football coach Kirby Smart, passed away early Saturday morning after suffering a fall in New Orleans.
As stated in a released announcement, Sonny passed away at 12:15 a.m. ET with his wife Sharon and their three children—Karl, Kirby, and Kendall—by his side.
“Sonny fell while walking on New Year’s Eve in New Orleans and sustained a hip fracture,” the announcement explained. “He was admitted to the hospital where he underwent hip surgery; unfortunately, complications emerged. He fought bravely but ultimately could not survive his injuries.”
<p”The statement added that, “The Smart family is deeply thankful to the Ochsner hospital and the medical staff for the outstanding care they provided to Sonny.
“They also request continued prayers for those affected by the tragic events that unfolded in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The Smart family values everyone’s thoughts and prayers and now seeks God’s comfort, strength, and guidance.”
The Smart family had traveled to New Orleans for the Allstate Sugar Bowl playoff game between Notre Dame and Georgia. This game, initially scheduled for January 1, was postponed to January 2 due to a terror attack that resulted in the deaths of over a dozen individuals and left many others injured.
Notre Dame triumphed over Georgia with a score of 23-10.
Sonny was a football coach, most recently leading a high school football team in Rabun County, Georgia. As reported by Access WDUN, he coached for nine seasons (1995-2003) and achieved an overall record of 46-48. Sonny also coached at Bainbridge High School, where Kirby played.
“Marty, the girls, and I are heartbroken to hear of Sonny Smart’s passing,” Governor Brian Kemp remarked in a statement on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “An amazing father and husband and a talented coach in his own right, he was a regular supporter at Georgia football games alongside his wife Sharon. Sonny represented the values and strength that we should all aspire to embody.”
“We are keeping Sharon, Karl, Kirby, Kendall, and all of their family members in our prayers during this challenging time. We encourage all Georgians to join us in keeping them and those affected by the tragedy in New Orleans in their hearts and prayers.”
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