Billy Ray Smith Jr.

Billy Ray Smith Jr. was a force in shoulder pads and behind a microphone — a man whose infectious laughter, big baritone voice, and genuine warmth made him one of the most beloved figures San Diego ever claimed as its own. Born on August 10, 1961, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and raised in Plano, Texas, he grew up in the shadow of football greatness and stepped fully into it. At the University of Arkansas, Smith became a defensive titan. He earned unanimous All-American honors in both 1981 and 1982, set a school record with 63 tackles for loss, and captained the 1982 Razorbacks squad that finished 9–2–1 and won the Bluebonnet Bowl. His exploits at Fayetteville earned him induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000 and a place on the Arkansas All-Century Team. The San Diego Chargers made him the fifth overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft, and Smith repaid that faith over a decade of relentless play. From 1983 to 1992, he recorded 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions, and 14 fumble recoveries — all in a Chargers uniform, because he never left. He was named team MVP during their historic 1987 turnaround season and became the face of the defense before handing the torch to Junior Seau. In 2009, fans voted him one of the 50 greatest Chargers of all time. Retirement from football barely slowed him down. Smith transitioned into San Diego media with the same energy he brought to the field — as sports director and television host at ABC 10 San Diego, co-host of the beloved afternoon drive-time program "The Scott and B.R. Show" on Mighty 1090 Radio, and later as a television host for the San Diego Union-Tribune's UTTV. His big smile and humble spirit made him a natural. Off the air, he was a tireless philanthropist. He and his wife, Kimberly Hunt, were named San Diego Nice Guys of the Year. He supported military families, mentored young athletes, and gave back to the city that had given him so much. In his final years, Billy Ray battled dementia caused by chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a consequence of a career defined by sacrifice. His family noted that he faced that long journey with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength — and that even then, when Van Halen or Journey or the Eagles came on, he would perk up and come alive. He passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Hunt, and their daughter, Savannah. San Diego lost an icon. The world lost a truly good man.