How old was Sonny Smart? Age and all we know as father of Georgia coach Kirby Smart, dies after fall

Sonny Smart, a veteran high school football coach and the father of Kirby Smart, head football coach at the University of Georgia, has passed away due to complications from his New Year's Eve hip injury.

Sonny Smart, 76, died of complications from hip surgery after falling in New Orleans before Georgia's Sugar Bowl game versus Notre Dame.

According to a school statement, Smart shattered his hip in a New Year's Eve fall while walking through the city. He was hospitalized and had surgery, but unexpected complications emerged during his rehabilitation. Despite his determination and struggle, he eventually died of his injuries. According to the statement, Smart died peacefully on January 4 at 12:15 am, accompanied by his wife and three children.

More about Sonny Smart

According to Yahoo Sports, Sonny Smart dedicated 23 years to coaching high school football, building a legacy in both Alabama and Georgia. He notably coached at Bainbridge High School, where his son, Kirby Smart, played under his leadership and later continued his career at Rabun County High School. His three children, Kendall, Kirby, and Karl, as well as his wife Sharon, remain behind.

Tributes for Sonny Smart poured in from coaches and officials expressing support for the Smart family during this difficult time. The Governor of Georgia, Brian P. Kemp, took to his X to post his condolences. In a post, he said:

"Marty, the girls, and I are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Sonny Smart. An incredible father and husband and a great coach in his own right, he was a constant presence at Georgia football games along with his wife Sharon. Sonny embodied the values and strength that we should all wish to have."

Greg Sankey, Commissioner of the Southeastern Conference, wrote:

"Sonny Smart touched many people in his life and we are saddened to learn of his passing. I had the privilege to visit with Sonny many times and enjoyed every conversation. Our sympathies go out to Kirby Smart and his family and to all who knew his dad."

The University of Georgia also released a statement from President Jere W. Morehead and J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Josh Brooks. It said:

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"The entire University of Georgia community expresses our deepest sympathy to the Smart family following the passing of Sonny Smart. He and his wife Sharon have been a constant and supportive part of our Bulldog community, and we will miss Sonny’s faithful presence on the sidelines of UGA football games. We are holding the Smart family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

Tributes from football fans and players continue to pour in on social media platforms as Sonny Smart leaves an indelible legacy as a former football coach and a University of Georgia supporter.

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