ATHENS, Ga. (WSAV) - Sonny Smart, the father of the University of Georgia's head football coach Kirby Smart, has passed away. Per a release by UGA, the elder Smart passed away just after midnight in New Orleans on Saturday, surrounded by his wife, Sharon, and their three children: Karl, Kirby, and Kendall. He was there for the Sugar Bowl between Georgia and Notre Dame. Smart fell while walking on New Year’s Eve in New Orleans and fractured his hip. He was hospitalized and underwent hip surgery; complications arose, and he was unable to overcome his injuries. His fall was not related to the Wednesday morning terrorist attack on Bourbon St. Honoring the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter: 6-day funeral schedule begins Saturday Following the announcement of Smart's death, Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp stated on X, "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. We are praying for Sharon, Karl, Kirby, Kendall and all of their loved ones during this difficult time. We ask that all Georgian's join us in keeping them and those tragically impacted earlier this week in New Orleans in our hearts and prayers." A native of Columbia, Ala., Smart was a long-time high school head coach in Georgia, posting an overall record of 90-78-1. He coached at Bainbridge High from 1988-1994 and Rabun County High from 1995-2003.