49ers CB Charvarius Ward announces passing of one-year old daughter

Oct 30, 2024, 12:18 PM | Updated: Oct 31, 2024, 8:21 am

SANTA CLARA, CA - AUGUST 18: Cornerback Charvarius Ward #7 of the San Francisco 49ers stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL preseason football game against the New Orleans Saints, at Levi's Stadium on August 18, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images)

(Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images)

BY AMILIANO FRAGOSO

San Francisco 49ers Beat Writer

The San Francisco 49ers enter its’ 2024 Bye Week on a sad note unfortunately, mourning the loss of a family member of Charvarius Ward.

The 49ers and the cornerback announced Tuesday that the player’s one-year old daughter, Amani Joy, had died Monday morning. Ward’s daughter had battled health issues since she was born, diagnosed with Down syndrome. She was also born with two holes in her heart, requiring surgery.

Sadly, Amani succumbed to her health concerns this week, with the entire 49ers community morning the loss of one of its’ own.

“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy,” the team’s statement read Tuesday. “Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to all those around her with her sweet demeanor and contagious laugh. We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, while sending them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”

Sending all of our love and support to Charvarius and Monique ❤️💛#IGYB pic.twitter.com/5umxvMJcnR

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) October 29, 2024

Charvarius Ward also took to social media to announce his daughter’s passing, sending his love eternally to the one-year old. Amani Joy would have been two in November.

“She will forever be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy,” the cornerback wrote on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Charvarius Ward (@itslilmooney)

Additionally, 49ers’ general manager John Lynch spoke on the matter Wednesday during an interview on KNBR, sending his condolences to Charvarius and his girlfriend Monique.

“Our organization is just really shaken. It’s unspeakable. We were able to be around him but you don’t know what to say. You pray, you love, and you continue to be there for the Ward family,” Lynch said Wednesday.