Mary Smith, the mother of HOF RB Emmitt Smith, has passed away

By Clarence E. Hill Jr.

Updated November 28, 2016 3:56 PM

Emmitt Smith's parents, Mary and Emmitt, were introduced to the audience at the Enshrinees Dinner in Canton, Ohio honoring the newest members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Friday, August 6, 2010. Mary Smith passed away on Saturday. RODGER MALLISON STAR-TELEGRAM/RODGER MALLISON

Mary Smith, the mother of Dallas Cowboys Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, has passed away.

Smith announced the death of his mother on Instagram.

I've lost many things in my life but nothing like the loss of my first Love, my mother. My heart is truly aching at this moment because I will never ever hear her voice again. I am so eternally grateful because she left me with so much wisdom that I now share with my kids. As we go through this period of adjustment as a family, I can hear her voice saying get up and get back in the game. Mom, you will be forever missed and always treasured. I love you and thanks for all you have given.

A photo posted by Emmitt Smith (@emmittsmith22) on Nov 27, 2016 at 8:25pm PST

He also received condolences from former teammate Michael Irvin on Twitter.

.@EmmittSmith22 our hearts hurt 4 u & ur fam my brother, on the loss of ur Mother. We r lifting u guys up in our prayers Love u brother
— Michael Irvin (@michaelirvin88) November 28, 2016

Mary Smith lives in Smith’s hometown of Pensacola, Fla., but died Saturday in Dallas, where she was visiting her son and his family for the Thanksgiving holiday.

This story was originally published November 28, 2016 at 3:49 PM.

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