On Monday night, Johnny Smart was involved in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle and a pickup truck. New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) reported that after the rideshare driver turned left from Sugar Bowl Drive onto South Carrollton Avenue, a pickup truck traveling on Sugar Bowl Drive ran a red light and struck the rideshare.
Johnny Smart, who was 71 years old, was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday afternoon.
The news of his father’s passing came as a profound shock to Kirby Smart. In a statement released by the University of Georgia, Smart expressed his grief and requested privacy for his family during this trying time.
“My father meant the world to me,” Smart said. “He was a great man and a wonderful father, and I will miss him dearly. I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the college football community, with many coaches, players, and fans offering their condolences.
Alabama coach Nick Saban, a close friend of Smart’s, expressed his sympathy, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Johnny Smart. He was a wonderful man who loved his family and the game of football. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kirby and his entire family during this difficult time.”
Former Georgia quarterback Stetson Bennett IV also shared his sorrow, tweeting, “Coach Smart, my heart goes out to you and your family. Your dad was such a great man, and I know he was so proud of you. My prayers are with you all during this time.”
Johnny Smart was a pillar in the South Georgia community and had a significant impact on the football program at Bainbridge High School, where Kirby Smart played and coached.
Under Johnny Smart’s leadership as head football coach, Bainbridge High School won two state championships in 1975 and 1977. He retired from coaching in 1990 and was inducted into the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2011.
Those who knew him described Johnny Smart as a dedicated father, a passionate coach, and a respected member of the Bainbridge community.
The loss of Johnny Smart serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones.
It also raises questions about the safety of rideshare transportation and the need for stricter regulations to ensure the protection of passengers and drivers.
In the wake of this tragedy, we must come together as a community to offer support to Kirby Smart and his family during their time of mourning.
We should also take this opportunity to reflect on the safety of rideshare transportation and advocate for measures that prioritize the well-being of all individuals who rely on these services.
The passing of Johnny Smart is a profound loss that leaves a heavy void in the hearts of all who knew him.
His legacy as a dedicated father, a respected coach, and a pillar of his community will continue to inspire generations to come.
While we mourn this tragic loss, we must also find ways to honor Johnny Smart’s memory and work towards a future where such senseless accidents become a thing of the past.
