Kirby Smart's father passes away after falling before the Sugar Bowl.

On Saturday morning, Kirby Smart's father, Sonny Smart, passed away due to complications from hip surgery he underwent after falling the day before the Sugar Bowl, as confirmed by the university.

On New Year's Day in New Orleans, Sonny Smart sustained injuries before the start of the College Football Playoff quarterfinal game between Georgia and Notre Dame, which was postponed to the next day due to a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street that resulted in the deaths of at least 14 people and injuries to many others.

He died shortly after midnight surrounded by his family.

On New Year's Eve in New Orleans, Sonny suffered a hip fracture while walking during the day. Despite being hospitalized and undergoing hip surgery, he faced complications. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to overcome his injuries.

"The Ochsner hospital and medical staff are thanked by the Smart family for the exceptional care given to Sonny. Furthermore, the family requests continued prayers for those affected by the New Year's Day tragedy."

On New Year's Day, Kirby Smart visited the hospital with his father after the Sugar Bowl was postponed. He returned after Georgia's 23-10 loss to Notre Dame.

A longtime high school football coach in Alabama and Georgia, Sonny Smart, also played football at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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