Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of the late Basketball Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant, has died at the age of 69, La Salle University’s athletics department reported.
Citing La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote Joe had recently suffered a stoke. The exact cause of death hasn’t been confirmed yet.
La Salle University, where Joe played and coached, said in a statement that he “was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”
Just like his famous son, Joe was a renowned basketball player himself. Drafted by the Golden State Warriors as the 14th overall pick in the 1975 NBA draft, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the then-San Diego Clippers for three seasons, and the Houston Rockets for one season. He also played in Europe.
The 76ers paid tribute to Joe, calling him “a local basketball icon, whose legacy on the court transcended his journey across Bartram High School, La Salle University, and his first four NBA seasons with the 76ers from 1975-79.”
Joe’s sudden passing comes four years after the tragic death of his son Kobe and his granddaughter Gianna, who were killed in a helicopter crash with seven other people.
Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, wrote on her Instagram story on Tuesday, “Sending our condolences upon hearing the news of my father-in-law’s passing.
“We hoped things would’ve been different. Although the times we spent together were few, he was always sweet and nice to be around. Kobe loved him very much.”
Former Kobe teammate Doug Young praised Joe as the ideal “role model.”
“Joe was our JV coach at Lower Merion and I could not have asked for a more positive mentor, teacher, and role model,” Young told ESPN. “It’s difficult to overstate how much he influenced me and my teammates. He made basketball fun and made us all want to be better; he believed in us. I’ll never forget his infectious smile, his bear hugs and the incredible bond he shared with Kobe. Growing up in Lower Merion, there was no family we loved and admired more than the Bryants, and that started with Joe.”
Arn Tellem, the vice chairman of the Pistons and formerly Kobe Bryant’s agent, expressed his sadness over the loss of Joe and joined the basketball community in mourning a true Philly hoops legend. “Our friendship opened the door for me to represent Kobe as he entered the NBA, a memory I’ll always cherish. Joe was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, whose warmth touched everyone he met.”
May he rest in peace.
Sally Field: A Remarkable Journey Through Life
Sally Field, the renowned actress known for her captivating portrayals of matriarchal characters, has had an extraordinary journey filled with ups and downs that have shaped both her career and personal life.
From her humble beginnings to her current status as a beloved Hollywood icon, Sally’s story is one of determination, resilience, and embracing the beauty of natural aging.
Early Success
Sally Field’s career took off with her debut in the comedic TV show “Gidget” from 1965 to 1966. Despite its short lifespan, Sally cherished the experience and the opportunities it brought her, propelling her into the dazzling world of Hollywood.
Triumph Over Adversity
Sally’s path to success was not without its challenges. She had a difficult childhood, partly due to her stepfather. However, she discovered solace and escape through acting, eventually earning a spot at the prestigious Columbia Pictures acting school. With her unwavering drive and perseverance, Sally began honing her craft and took her acting skills to new heights.
Breakthroughs and Recognition
Sally’s breakthrough in Hollywood came with the 1976 film “Sybil,” which caught the attention of the industry and opened doors for her. One of her most notable performances was in the drama film “Norma Rae” in 1979, a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination for playing a union organizer.
Throughout her illustrious career, Sally Field has taken on a wide variety of roles in both TV shows and films, earning her respect and recognition in the industry. Her portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln in the movie “Lincoln” garnered her an Oscar nomination, cementing her status as a talented and versatile actress.
Embracing Natural Aging
In an industry obsessed with youth and beauty, Sally Field made a conscious decision to age naturally and forego plastic surgery. She saw beauty in women who embraced their age gracefully and chose not to alter their features as they got older.
Cherishing Family Moments
Sally Field’s life took on a new dimension when she became a grandmother to five grandchildren. Embracing the role of a doting grandma, Sally found joy and fulfillment in creating precious memories with her beloved grandchildren.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Sally Field’s achievements continue to inspire others in the entertainment industry and beyond. Throughout her fruitful career spanning six decades, she has overcome great obstacles with grace, resilience, and a tenacious spirit.
Sally’s life exemplifies the power and kindness of a remarkable woman who leaves an indelible impression on the world.
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