Billy Ray Smith Jr. has sadly passed away at the age of 64. He's best known for his time with the San Diego Chargers, where he played linebacker. Billy Ray is also a College Football Hall of Famer. The former football star had been fighting a long battle with dementia, which had been caused by CTE, his family said.
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"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family," Billy Ray's family said in a statement, via The New York Post. "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."
The statement continued by praising the career Billy Ray had within football, both at the professional and collegiate ranks.
"On the NFL gridiron for a decade with the Chargers, and decades that followed in sports broadcasting, Billy Ray earned deep respect from teammates, colleagues, and fans, who he cherished in return. He leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives. His undeniable legacy will live forever in our hearts, and we thank our incredible community for the outpouring of love and support."
Billy Ray Smith Jr. Spent 10 Seasons in the NFL
Billy Ray was drafted into the NFL with the fifth overall pick in 1983. He spent his entire career with the Chargers, spanning from '83 to '92. In total, he suited up for 126 regular-season games, starting 111 of them. As a rookie, he finished eighth in rookie-of-the-year voting.
According to Pro-Football Reference, Billy Ray never suited up for a postseason game. Nevertheless, he became a vital part of the Chargers' system, playing both right- and left-sided in and outside linebacker throughout his career.
Before entering the NFL, Billy Ray was a standout for Arkansas. He was team captain in 1982. Billy Ray helped lead his college team to a 9-2-1record, registering 299 tackles along the way. 63 of those tackles were for a loss.
Currently, there's no information regarding Billy Ray's impending funeral. Those details will likely remain private.
