Every Thursday evening, Walt Gary was waiting for coach Nick Saban. The faithful University of Alabama fan would greet players as they left practice, and most importantly, deliver his score prediction for the Alabama football game that weekend. Walt's dedication to the Crimson Tide was unparalleled, as Saban himself once told ESPN's College GameDay how Walt "is one of the people that, in my opinion, project the spirit and tradition of Alabama football."
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On Thursday night, Alabama superfan Walt Gary died after spending several days in UAB hospital's intensive care unit. Walt's grandmother Betsy Shirley confirmed to TuscaloosaNews.com that her grandson battled health issues throughout his life, but suffered from bleeding in his brain before passing away. Walt Gary was 36 years old.
Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne tweeted the news early Friday morning. Shortly after, Walt's name began trending nationwide as former Alabama Crimson Tide football players, fans, boosters, and even rival programs remembered one of the truly awesome fans in college football.
Sad to hear the news of Walt Gary’s passing. He was always so full of joy and loved the Crimson Tide. We will miss seeing him around the department. #RIPWalt pic.twitter.com/TkmnJa62u5
— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) June 7, 2019
Gonna miss Walt ! This was my guy since day one. I was always the best TE in America in his eyes. Love you brotha RIP🙏🏽 https://t.co/OnrI3TkJxz
— OJ Howard (@TheRealOjHoward) June 7, 2019
Heartbroken to hear of Walt’s passing. Every Thursday, I looked forward to seeing him as we left the facility and always enjoyed his predictions. His joy and spirit were contagious. We will miss you, Walt. #RIPWalt #RollTideWalt https://t.co/9uiswVJuMv
— Greg McElroy (@GregMcElroy) June 7, 2019
Incredibly saddened by the news of the passing of our friend Walt Gary. Nobody loved the Alabama football team more than he did. His spirit will forever live on through the program! Seeing him before every game was nothing but motivation! Love and prayers to his entire family❤️ pic.twitter.com/rSRETuL1nm
— Damien Harris (@DHx34) June 7, 2019
Saddened to hear of Walt Gary’s passing. His pure love for his Crimson Tide was returned by all in the Alabama family. A mutual friend shared a note from Walt’s sister, “Walt is shaking his shaker in Heaven.” Praying for his family’s comfort. https://t.co/ABEh7TBNSr
— Rece Davis (@ReceDavis) June 7, 2019
"Walt Gary was a special part of the Alabama football program and our hearts are broken by the news of his passing. He was beloved by everyone on our team, in our athletic department and throughout the Alabama family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and everyone who knew and loved Walt as much as we did. The Thursday night radio show won't be the same without hearing his game prediction and seeing his infectious personality. Walt will be truly missed."
— Statement from Alabama head coach Nick Saban
One of the most incredible parts of tributes across social media was that so very few mentioned that Walt Gary suffered from Down syndrome. That's because Walt was so much more than that. He loved Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa loved him. Not out of charity or anyone feeling sorry for him, but because Walt spread love to everyone he met and asked for nothing in return.
Walt began coming to Alabama football practices when coach Gene Stallings, who had a son with Down syndrome himself, walked the sidelines of Bryant-Denny Stadium. Ever since, Walt only wanted one thing in return: to see his friends at Alabama succeed.
Along with his thrilling predictions, Walt always brought joy, energy and love to the room. He was a blessing to many and exemplified what a HERO stood for. You will be missed Brotha ❤️. #LLWG pic.twitter.com/OrJmmhwNjZ
— Jalen Hurts (@JalenHurts) June 7, 2019
Excitement. Energy. Confidence. Generosity. If there's anything we should learn from Walt Gary's incredible life, it's that these values transcend all of us, no matter where we come from or what we look like.
The college football world lost one of its greatest fans, but Walt Gary will never be forgotten. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Wednesday, June 12 at 2 p.m. at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Rest in peace and Roll Tide, forever.
