Georgia Coach Kirby Smart’s Father Passes Away
Georgia coach Kirby Smart’s father, Sonny, died early Saturday of complications from hip surgery after falling in New Orleans ahead of the Sugar Bowl, the school announced.
Background
Sonny Smart, a longtime high school football coach in Alabama and Georgia, fell while walking on New Year’s Eve and fractured his hip. He was hospitalized and had hip surgery at Ochsner Medical Center, where he died surrounded by his family, Georgia said in a statement that did not provide his age.
Family and Football
The Smart family was in New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl, which was pushed back a day because a man rammed a pickup truck into a crowd of New Year’s revelers in the French Quarter, killing 14 people and injuring about 30.
Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs lost to Notre Dame 23-10 in the game, a College Football Playoff semifinal, on Thursday.
Previous Health Issues
Sonny Smart couldn’t make it to the national title game in 2023 when Georgia beat TCU 65-7 to repeat as national champions because of health issues. Before those arose, he had been a regular at his son’s games since Kirby became head coach at his alma mater in 2016.
Survivors and Condolences
Sonny Smart, who coached Kirby when he was in high school, is survived by his wife, Sharon, and their three children, Karl, Kirby, and Kendall.
The Smart family said in a statement issued by Georgia that it “expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the Ochsner hospital and medical staff for the exceptional care provided to Sonny.”
“Additionally, they ask for your continued prayers for those affected by the tragic events that occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
“The Smart family treasures everyone’s thoughts and prayers and now prays for God’s comfort, strength, and guidance.”
Conclusion
The passing of Sonny Smart is a tragic loss for the Smart family and the Georgia Bulldogs community. Our condolences go out to Kirby Smart and his family during this difficult time.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of Sonny Smart’s death?
A: Sonny Smart died from complications from hip surgery after falling and fracturing his hip.
Q: How old was Sonny Smart?
A: The age of Sonny Smart was not provided in the statement.
Q: What was Sonny Smart’s relationship to Kirby Smart?
A: Sonny Smart was Kirby Smart’s father and a longtime high school football coach in Alabama and Georgia.
Q: What is the current status of Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs?
A: Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs are currently dealing with the loss of Sonny Smart and preparing for their next game.
