Sonny Smart, father of Georgia football coach Kirby Smart, passed away after complications from hip surgery following a fall in New Orleans. A respected high school coach, Sonny's legacy and influence on his son are profound, shaping Kirby's coaching philosophy. The Smart family expressed gratitude for the care Sonny received and requested prayers for those affected by recent tragic events in New Orleans.
The sports community is mourning the loss of Sonny Smart, father of Georgia football head coach Kirby Smart, who passed away early Saturday morning. Sonny Smart, a respected high school football coach, died from complications following hip surgery after a fall in New Orleans. His passing comes shortly after Georgia's participation in the College Football Playoffs, where they faced a challenging loss to Notre Dame. The Smart family has expressed their gratitude for the care Sonny received and requested continued prayers for those affected by recent tragic events in New Orleans.
Sonny Smart, aged 76, passed away at 12:15 a.m. Saturday after complications from hip surgery following a fall in New Orleans on New Year's Eve. He was in the city to support his son Kirby Smart's team during the College Football Playoffs. Sonny was a revered high school football coach in Alabama and Georgia, having coached at Holtville High School, Bainbridge High, and Rabun County High. His influence on his son Kirby is profound, shaping his coaching philosophy and approach. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp remarked, "Sonny embodied the values and strength that we should all wish to have" [1] [2].
Sonny Smart's influence on his son Kirby is evident in Kirby's coaching style and philosophy. Kirby Smart has often spoken about the lessons he learned from his father, emphasizing the importance of preparation and handling situations with wisdom. "He’s taught me so much just about the way you handle things, the right way, the wrong way," Kirby said. Sonny's coaching career included a significant period at Bainbridge High School, where Kirby played under him. The elder Smart's approach to coaching has been a cornerstone in Kirby's career, reflecting the values and strategies he observed growing up [3].
The Smart family has received an outpouring of support from the community and colleagues. Georgia coach Shane Beamer and SEC commissioner Greg Sankey expressed their condolences, highlighting Sonny's impact on those around him. The family also acknowledged the tragic events in New Orleans, where a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street occurred, affecting many lives. The Smart family asked for continued prayers for those impacted by the tragedy. This incident led to the postponement of the Sugar Bowl, adding to the emotional weight of the events surrounding Sonny's passing [4] [5].
The passing of Sonny Smart is a significant loss to the Georgia football community and beyond. His legacy as a coach and father is reflected in the values and success of his son, Kirby Smart. The family is grateful for the support and care provided during this difficult time and continues to seek comfort and strength. The broader community is also reminded of the recent tragic events in New Orleans, as the Smart family and others affected navigate their grief and healing.
"He’s taught me so much just about the way you handle things, the right way, the wrong way." - Kirby Smart
"Sonny embodied the values and strength that we should all wish to have." - Brian Kemp
"The Smart family treasures everyone’s thoughts and prayers and now prays for God’s comfort, strength, and guidance." - Georgia Athletics