Sonny Smart, Father of Georgia Coach Kirby Smart, Passes Away
The University of Georgia community is mourning the loss of Sonny Smart, the father of head football coach Kirby Smart, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 83.
Sonny Smart was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and was a pillar of strength and support for his family throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Kirby Smart, the head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs football team, released a statement expressing his sadness at the loss of his father.
“I’m heartbroken to announce the passing of my dad, Sonny Smart,” Kirby said. “He was an incredible husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family with all his heart. He was my rock, my mentor, and my best friend. I’m going to miss him every day, but I know he’s in a better place now.”
Sonny Smart was a proud Georgia fan and was known for his unwavering support of his son’s coaching career. He was often seen cheering on the Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium and was a familiar face at various Georgia sporting events.
Born on May 23, 1939, in Rome, Georgia, Sonny grew up in a family of athletes and developed a passion for sports from an early age. He played football, basketball, and baseball in high school and went on to play college football at the University of Georgia.
After college, Sonny served in the United States Army and later worked as a high school coach in Georgia. He met his wife, Cindy, while working as a coach, and they were married for over 50 years until her passing in 2019.
Sonny is survived by his son Kirby, as well as two grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He will be remembered as a kind, compassionate, and dedicated family man who always put others before himself.
The University of Georgia athletic department released a statement expressing their condolences to the Smart family.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sonny Smart,” the statement read. “He was a beloved member of the Georgia family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kirby and the entire Smart family during this difficult time.”
A memorial service will be held in honor of Sonny Smart at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the University of Georgia Athletic Foundation in Sonny’s name.
As news of Sonny’s passing spread, tributes poured in from across the sports world. Former Georgia players and coaches expressed their condolences on social media, remembering Sonny as a kind and supportive figure who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
“Sonny was more than just a father to Kirby; he was a friend to everyone who knew him,” said former Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford. “He had a heart of gold and always had a smile on his face. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
The loss of Sonny Smart is a reminder of the importance of family and the impact one person can have on those around them. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who lived life to the fullest and inspired countless people with his kindness and generosity.
As Kirby said in his statement, “My dad may be gone, but his memory will live on in my heart forever.”
