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Alabama superfan Walt Gary died Thursday night at the age of 36.
Gary, a native of Tuscaloosa and with Down syndrome, became a part of the football program under former coach Gene Stallings, father of a son with Down syndrome and welcomed Gary to the workouts.
Under coach Nick Saban, Gary was visiting the team on Thursdays before games, saluting the players and even giving Saban his score predictions.
"Walt is one of those people who, in my opinion, reflect the spirit and tradition of alabama football," Saban told ESPN's GameDay College in 2018.
Saban said Friday in a statement that Gary was "loved by all members of our team, our sports department and the entire Alabama family".
Thursdays will never be the same again.
Rest in peace, Walt. pic.twitter.com/ipjxgkrnEn– Football of Alabama (@AlabamaFTBL) June 7, 2019
Athletic Director Alabama Greg Byrne earlier tweeted news of Gary's death Friday morning, noticing how much Gary was "full of joy" as well as his love for the scarlet tide.
Several former players also published on social media just how much of Gary's program had become.
I will miss you Walt! It's been my guy since the first day. I've always been America's best TE in his eyes. I love you brotha RIP?? https://t.co/OnrI3TkJxz
– OJ Howard 80 ™ (@TheRealOjHoward) June 7, 2019
Incredibly saddened by the news of the death of our friend Walt Gary. No one loved the Alabama football team more than him. His spirit will live forever through the program! Seeing it before every game was just motivation! Love and prayers to all his family❤️ pic.twitter.com/rSRETuL1nm
– Damien Harris (@ DHx34) June 7, 2019
RIP Walt Gary what an incredible soul, a person can really make you enjoy life and continue to be joyous and relaxing ??
– jarran reed (@ 1j_reed) June 7, 2019
Heartbroken by the passing of our good friend Walt Gary! It was always a great joy to see him every Thursday! Walt was a light in this world, always made you smile and was really the biggest fan of Alabama. Pray for her sweet mother Betsy and their family! We will miss you, Walt! ? pic.twitter.com/rNw9YtEh8d
– Christian Miller (@christianmillr) June 7, 2019
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