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A cause of death has been released for college football legend Billy Ray Smith Jr. who passed away at 64 years old.
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Billy Ray Smith Jr., a two-time unanimous All-American linebacker at Arkansas, has died. His family released a statement, confirming that he died from CTE-complications. He had been diagnosed with dementia.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family,” the statement said. “Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength. Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend.”
CTE, a brain disease, has been found in athletes playing contact sports, along with combat veterans and others exposed to head trauma. It can only be diagnosed after death.
Billy Ray Smith Jr. played 10 seasons with the Chargers after being drafted with the fifth overall pick of the 1983 NFL Draft. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
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Chargers release statement on his passing
Chargers owner Dean Spanos released a statement on his passing.
“To know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray. Yes, he was a member of our 50th Anniversary team. Yes, he was a Charger for life, playing his entire 10-year career here. But he wasn’t merely a great football player. He was, truly, larger than life. Always smiling. Lighting up every room he walked into. Infectious laughter. The kind of friend a friend should be. That was Billy Ray,” he wrote.
“When someone who brought so much positivity into the world leaves us, it’s hard to process. Hard to accept. That’s how I feel right now, and I know I’m not alone.
“Billy Ray loved his family, loved the Chargers, loved his teammates, loved his community and loved helping those in need. And we all loved him back.
“Our hearts are with his wife, Kimberly, daughter, Savannah and the countless people whose lives were made just a little bit brighter because they had the privilege of knowing Billy Ray.”
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May he rest in peace.
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