THE wife of former NFL star Alonzo Highsmith has unexpectedly died at the age of 61.
Denise Chong Highsmith was married to the ex-Houston Oilers running back for 35 years.
Denise Chong Highsmith, wife of former NFL star Alonzo Highsmith, has died aged 61[/caption]
Highsmith, a former boxer and running back, is currently in the Pats front office[/caption]
A memorial service notice was posted to Denise’s Instagram page on Tuesday.
It informed her followers of her “unexpected passing” but did not give a cause of death.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved mother, wife, sister, and friend, Denise Elizabeth Highsmith,” the post read.
“Denise was truly one of a kind – a fun, loving, and free-spirited soul who embraced everyone without judgment.
“She poured into the lives of others with kindness, laughter, and service, and in doing so, she found joy and fulfillment.
“To know her was to feel seen, loved, and uplifted.
“Denise will forever be remembered for the light she brought into the world, and her spirit will live on in all of us.”
Highsmith, 60, recently celebrated his 35th wedding anniversary with Denise.
He has yet to publicly comment on her death.
Minnesota Vikings star Aaron Jones paid tribute on Instagram, saying Denise was like a mother to him.
“Truly a living angel walking this planet,” a devastated Jones wrote.
“Praying for the family mama I love you and thank you for being there always checking on me and just treating me like I’m one of your kids.
“I know you’re looking down protecting us from things we can’t even see. I love you.”
Highsmith was a first round pick for Houston in 1987.
He made his name playing for the Miami Hurricanes, winning the national title in 1983.
Highsmith would play five seasons in the NFL, including for the Cowboys, Buccaneers, and Chiefs.
After hanging up his cleats, he became a professional boxer.
Fighting as a heavyweight, he notched up an impressive 27–1–2 pro record.
In 2012, Highsmith returned to football after taking a job in the Green Bay Packers front office.
He has since held positions across the league and is currently a personnel executive with the New England Patriots.
