San Francisco 49ers star Charvarius Ward announced the death of his 23-month-old daughter on Instagram, Tuesday.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy passed away on Monday morning,” he wrote on social media.
“She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear,” he said. He continued to pay tribute to his little girl by writing, “She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life.”
Amani Joy was born with Down Syndrome, and Ward’s previous social media post noted that she also underwent heart surgery. The young child’s official cause of death has not been officially reported.
“She showed us true strength and bravery,” Ward said, as he memorialized his child.
“She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile. Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better.”
He continued, “She will forever be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”
The San Francisco 49eers cornerback had his daughter with girlfriend Monique Cook.
His team wrote a touching message on Instagram as they paid their respects.
“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy,” they wrote.
“Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to all those around her with her sweet demeanor and contagious laugh.”
SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 25: Charvarius Ward #7 of the San Francisco 49ers in the locker room before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Levi’s Stadium on December 25, 2023 in Santa Clara, California. The Ravens defeated the 49ers 33-19. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images)
They pledged to stand by the family in their moment of grief, and fans quickly flooded the comment section with the same shared emotion.(RELATED: WWE Legend Ric Flair Issues Heartbreaking Statement After Stepson Dies By Suicide)
“We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, while sending them our love and support during this unimaginable time,” they wrote.
Ward’s Instagram account is full of images of his beloved daughter, as he documented the joy she brought into his life during her short time on earth.
This article was originally published at dailycaller.com
