NFL player from Mississippi mourns loss of 1-year-old daughter who was ‘source of light’ filled with joy
Published 9:14 am Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Mississippi native and NFL player Charvarius Ward is mourning the loss of his 1-year-old daughter, Amani Joy. Ward, who grew up in McComb, shared the heartbreaking news in a social media post on Tuesday, revealing that his daughter, who had Down syndrome, passed away unexpectedly on Monday.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy, passed away on Monday morning,” wrote Ward and Amani’s mother, Monique Cook, in a heartfelt statement. “She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear. She taught us patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life. She showed us strength and bravery.”
The couple described Amani as a source of light, with a smile that filled every room. “Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better. She will forever be Daddy’s best friend and Mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”
Ward, a cornerback for the San Francisco 49ers, has played for the team for three seasons. The 49ers extended their support to him and his family, saying, “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.”
Sending all of our love and support to Charvarius and Monique ❤️💛#IGYB pic.twitter.com/5umxvMJcnR
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) October 29, 2024
