Sonny Smart, Father of Georgia Football Coach Kirby Smart, Passes Away After Fall in New Orleans
New Orleans, January 4, 2025 - Sonny Smart, the beloved father of University of Georgia football head coach Kirby Smart, has passed away early this morning following complications from emergency hip surgery after a fall in New Orleans. The tragic event occurred on New Year's Eve while the Smart family was in town for the Sugar Bowl, where Georgia was slated to play Notre Dame.
Sonny Smart, who was a prominent figure in his own right as a former high school football coach, fell and fractured his hip in front of his hotel, an incident unrelated to the devastating terror attack that had struck the city earlier. Despite immediate medical attention and subsequent surgery, complications arose, leading to his untimely death at 12:15 a.m., surrounded by his wife Sharon and their three children, Karl, Kirby, and Kendall.
Kirby Smart, who has led the Georgia Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships, was present in New Orleans during this period, balancing his duties as head coach with his personal family crisis. Georgia lost the Sugar Bowl to Notre Dame with a score of 23-10, but the focus quickly shifted to the personal loss of the Smart family.
Sonny Smart was known not only for his coaching career, where he served at various high schools in Georgia, but also for the profound impact he had on his son's career, with Kirby often crediting his father for the lessons and values imparted to him. His influence was felt throughout the Georgia football community, where he was a constant presence at games until recent health issues limited his attendance.
Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia expressed his condolences on social media, describing Sonny as "an incredible father and husband and a great coach in his own right." The community and fans have been rallying around the Smart family, offering prayers and support during this difficult time.
The University of Georgia has released a statement thanking Ochsner Hospital for the care provided to Sonny and asking for continued prayers for those affected by both the personal tragedy of the Smart family and the broader impact of the New Orleans terror attack, which claimed 14 lives and injured dozens.
The loss of Sonny Smart marks a somber moment for the Georgia football family, as they mourn the passing of a man whose legacy extends far beyond the gridiron.
Comments