Kirby Smart recalls memories of Vince Dooley ahead of Top 5 matchup vs Tennessee

Last week, the college football world lost a giant when legendary Georgia coach Vince Dooley passed away at age 90. Kirby Smart shared his thoughts on Dooley throughout the week, and he shared more memories Friday on “The Paul Finebaum Show.”

Smart reflected on his time with Dooley, who served as Georgia’s head coach from 1964-88 and led the Bulldogs to a national championship in 1980. That was the program’s last title before last season when Smart led his alma mater to the mountaintop — with Dooley in attendance at Lucas Oil Stadium.

During his appearance with Finebaum, Smart reflected more about Dooley as a person and what he meant to the community in Athens. He also said he spent time with Dooley’s wife, Barbara, just a couple days before Georgia’s pivotal showdown against Tennessee.

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“I don’t know that I can put him into words,” Smart said. “He meant so much to this city, this town, this state. What a great man, what a class man. He affected so many lives. Seeing all those players that played for him and all the men he impacted, it makes you realize why you do what you do. And visiting with Barbara yesterday meant a lot to me. She was very emotional, and their family. He lived the right way.”

Kirby Smart released heartfelt statement shortly after death of legendary Georgia coach Vince Dooley

After news broke about Dooley’s death, Smart tweeted a heartfelt statement about what Dooley meant to Georgia and college football. He remains the Bulldogs’ all-time winningest coach, totaling 201 wins during his time at the helm.

“Our family is heartbroken by the death of Coach Dooley,” Smart tweeted. “He was one of a kind with an unmatched love for UGA! He and Barbara embraced my family from day one. He will be missed in our community, university, and in college athletics.”