49ers’ cornerback announces tragic death of 1-year-old daughter

The 49ers and the football world are mourning the death of a 1-year-old child.

San Francisco cornerback Charvarius Ward announced the heartbreaking news Tuesday of the sudden death of his daughter Amani Joy.

“She was the best blessing we could have asked for and her joyful spirit made us smile from ear to ear,” Ward wrote on Instagram. “She taught us to have patience, trust and a positive outlook on life. She showed us true strength and bravery. She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy and lit up every room with her smile.”

In an earlier social media post celebrating World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, Ward revealed that Amani had been born with Down Syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes developmental delays, mild to moderate intellectual disability and altered physical features.

Amani’s exact cause of death was not disclosed.

“Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better,” Ward’s post concluded. “She will forever be Daddy’s best friend and Mommy’s little girl. We will miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”

The 49ers too issued a statement confirms the news.

“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy. Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to everyone around her with her sweet demeanor and infectious laugh. We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique as we send them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”

Ward, an undrafted player from Middle Tennessee, made his first Pro Bowl in 2023. He spent his first four seasons with the Chiefs, winning Super Bowl LIV against the 49ers in 2019.