SAN DIEGO, CA. (THECOUNT) — Billy Ray Smith Jr., 64, former San Diego Chargers linebacker, broadcaster and philanthropist, died Wednesday surrounded by family following a battle with dementia caused by chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), his family announced.
San Diego is located along California’s southern coast and was the city Smith called home for more than four decades after being selected by the Chargers in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft.
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Smith spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the Chargers after being selected fifth overall in the 1983 NFL Draft. Wearing No. 54, he became one of the franchise’s most respected defensive players and was later named the team’s Most Valuable Player during his career.
Born in Arkansas and raised in Plano, Texas, Smith won a Texas Class 4A state championship at Plano Senior High School before following in the footsteps of his father, Billy Ray Smith Sr., to the University of Arkansas. He became a two-time unanimous All-American and was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Following his retirement from professional football, Smith built a successful broadcasting career in San Diego. He joined ABC 10News as sports director in 1993 and became a familiar voice to local sports fans through the popular “Scott and B.R.” radio program and his work covering college and professional football.
Smith was equally known for his extensive charitable work throughout Southern California. Alongside fellow Chargers players, he helped establish Bates Street, an after-school program serving local children, and later co-founded the Great Friends Foundation, which has raised millions of dollars to support military families in the San Diego area.
He married longtime ABC 10News anchor Kimberly Hunt in 1990. The couple welcomed their daughter, Savannah, two years later.
Earlier this month, Smith and Hunt were named the Nice Guys of the Year and were scheduled to be honored at the organization’s 46th annual gala in October.
In a statement released Wednesday, Smith’s family said he “passed away peacefully surrounded by family” after courageously battling dementia caused by CTE.
“Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength,” the statement read.
The family described Smith as a devoted husband, father, son and friend whose legacy extends well beyond his accomplishments on the football field and in broadcasting.
Memorial service arrangements will be announced at a later date.
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