Georgia Coach Kirby Smart’s Father, Sonny, Passes Away Following Surgery
Early Saturday, the University of Georgia announced the passing of Sonny Smart, father of head football coach Kirby Smart, due to complications from hip surgery. Sonny, a revered high school football coach in Alabama and Georgia, sustained a hip fracture after a fall in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve, just days before the Sugar Bowl. Following his surgery at Ochsner Medical Center, he died surrounded by loved ones, although the family did not disclose his age.
The Smart family had traveled to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl, which was postponed a day due to a tragic incident involving a pickup truck that claimed 14 lives and injured about 30 individuals in the French Quarter.
Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs faced Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal on Thursday, ultimately losing 23-10. Sonny had not been able to attend the national title game in January 2023, where the Bulldogs triumphed over TCU 65-7 to secure back-to-back championships, due to health issues. He was a frequent presence at games since Kirby assumed the coaching role in 2016.
Survived by his wife Sharon and children Karl, Kirby, and Kendall, the Smart family released a statement expressing gratitude for the care provided by the medical staff at Ochsner. They also extended prayers for those impacted by the recent tragic events in New Orleans, emphasizing their appreciation for the support and prayers from the community. In this time of loss, the Smart family seeks comfort, strength, and guidance from their faith.
