Sonny Smart, father of Georgia Bulldogs head football coach Kirby Smart, passed away early Saturday morning due to complications following hip surgery. He was 76 years old.
On New Year’s Eve, while in New Orleans to support his son’s team in the Sugar Bowl, Sonny fell and fractured his hip. He underwent surgery at Ochsner Medical Center, but complications arose, leading to his passing. He died surrounded by his wife, Sharon, and their three children: Karl, Kirby, and Kendall.
Sonny Smart was a respected high school football coach in Alabama and Georgia, notably coaching his son Kirby at Bainbridge High School in Georgia. He played college football at Samford University before dedicating his career to coaching, where he influenced many young athletes and left a lasting legacy in the high school sports community.
Kirby Smart, reflecting on his father’s impact, once said, “He’s taught me so much just about the way you handle things, the right way, the wrong way. Control the controllables. The moment’s never too big if you’re prepared.”
The Smart family expressed their gratitude to the medical staff at Ochsner Medical Center for the exceptional care provided to Sonny. They also requested continued prayers for those affected by the tragic events that occurred … New Orleans on New Year’s Day.
Condolences have poured in from the sports community. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey stated, “Sonny Smart touched many people in his life and we are saddened … .” South Carolina coach Shane Beamer added, “We’re sending prayers to … .”
Sonny Smart’s passing is a significant loss to the football community, and his legacy will be remembered by many.