Billy Ray Smith, a former Chargers linebacker who became a San Diego television and radio star following his football career, has died. He was 64.<\/p>\n
Smith died following a \u201clong journey with dementia caused by CTE,\u201d his family said in a statement, saying that he faced his diagnosis with \u201cbravery, dignity and strength.\u201d<\/p>\n
Smith\u2019s death was announced by KGTV, where Smith worked as sports director starting in 1993 and where his wife, longtime Channel 10 news anchor Kimberly Hunt, is still employed.<\/p>\n
\u201cBilly Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend,\u201d the family said. \u201cOn 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
This story will be updated.<\/p>\n
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