In an emotional and deeply saddening update, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius “Mooney” Ward announced the passing of his one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy.
The news comes as a shock to the NFL community and fans alike, pulling at the heartstrings for this young man and his family.
Ward shared his grief through a touching social media post on Instagram. In it, he spoke of Amani with the utmost affection, describing her as a source of joy and inspiration in his life.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy passed away on Monday morning. She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear. She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life,” he said.
“She showed us true strength and bravery. She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile.”
He added that she had changed the couple’s life.
“She will forever be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”
It’s clear that Amani was deeply loved during her short stay on Earth.
Charvarius Ward Sadly Shares News Of His Daughter’s Passing
The San Francisco 49ers were quick to release a statement expressing their devastation over Amani’s passing. They highlighted how she embodied pure happiness and had an infectious laugh that touched all who encountered her.
“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy. Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to all those around her with her sweet demeanor and contagious laugh,” a statement reads.
“We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, while sending them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”
Sending all of our love and support to Charvarius and Monique ❤️💛#IGYB pic.twitter.com/5umxvMJcnR
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) October 29, 2024
The team and the broader NFL community have shown an outpouring of support for Ward and his family during this unimaginable time.
“Thoughts and prayers to the entire family,” NFL reporter Dov Kleiman wrote.
“Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Charvarius Ward’s daughter, Amani Joy,” added journalist Kaushik Nagar. “Wishing them strength, comfort, and peace in this tragic time.”
He provided a heartwarming video with his post.
Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Charvarius Ward's daughter, Amani Joy. Wishing them strength, comfort, and peace in this tragic time. 💔
— Kaushik Nagar (@Kaushiknagar777) October 29, 2024
We will miss her very much. 💔 pic.twitter.com/fRnsdCyiK3
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Truly Devastating
Charvarius Ward’s announcement has touched many lives, bringing forth a wave of empathy and support.
It serves as a stark reminder that behind every jersey number is a person, with a life and a story. They have joys and sorrows beyond what we, as fans, see on the field or on the court.
As we remember Amani Joy Ward, we hold onto the lessons of love, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment with our own loved ones.
The San Francisco Chronicle detailed Ward and his girlfriend’s story with their daughter earlier this year. Amani was discovered to have Down syndrome after a blood test. Doctors also discovered a heart defect.
“I put her down in her (crib) and she just looked at me and smiled,” Ward said at the time. “I was just like, ‘Damn, this is just beautiful.’ And I love that feeling that she gave me when she smiled.”
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