**Sonny Smart**, the father of Georgia Bulldogs football head coach **Kirby Smart**, tragically passed away on **Saturday** following complications from hip surgery. The university confirmed his death after he succumbed to injuries sustained from a fall that occurred before Georgia's loss to **Notre Dame** in the **Sugar Bowl**.
At **76 years old**, Sonny Smart suffered a fall on **New Year’s Eve** in **New Orleans**, which led to a fractured hip. According to the university’s statement, he was immediately hospitalized and underwent surgery to address the injury. Unfortunately, complications from the surgery proved too severe, and Sonny passed away early Saturday morning at **12:15 a.m.** with his wife and three children by his side.
### **A Legacy in Football: Sonny Smart’s Coaching Career**
Sonny Smart was a respected figure in the **high school football** community, coaching for many years in both **Alabama** and **Georgia**. He served as the coach at **Bainbridge High School**, where his son **Kirby Smart** played under his tutelage. He also coached at **Rabun County High School**, leaving a lasting impact on the young athletes he mentored.
### **Condolences Pour In for the Smart Family**
The death of Sonny Smart has deeply affected the football community. Coaches and officials across the country expressed their condolences and admiration for the Smart family during this difficult time. **SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey** and **South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer** were among those who shared heartfelt tributes.
Beamer, who has known Kirby Smart for over 25 years, wrote on social media, “I’ve always enjoyed my interactions with his dad. He was a **true competitor** and a **football coach** through and through. My heart hurts for the Smart family, and we’re sending prayers to all of them.” Beamer also reminisced about a friendly but competitive golf match with the Smart family, highlighting Sonny's love for competition.
### **Kirby Smart: A Son Remembering His Father’s Impact**
Kirby Smart, who became the head coach of the **Georgia Bulldogs football team**, has always credited his father with instilling his passion for the game. As Georgia fans mourn the loss of Sonny Smart, they also reflect on his integral role in shaping not just his son’s career but also the community around him. His passing is a significant moment for Georgia football, a team that has experienced tremendous success under Kirby’s leader
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