Ray Lewis, the only player in NFL history with at least 40 sacks and 30 interceptions, is a two-time Super Bowl champ and a Baltimore Ravens legend. But beyond the field, there’s one person who’s always had his heart—his mom, Sunseria “Buffy” Smith. And yesterday was her special day!

On April 30, Ray Lewis’ mother turned 65, and the ex-athlete made sure her day felt nothing short of special. He gave fans a peek into the celebration through his Instagram stories. In one clip, he walked through a decorated home with balloons everywhere, two gorgeous cakes on the table, and a big golden “65” balloon on the window.

The message on the cakes said it all: “Happy Birthday Mom.” In fact, in his caption, Lewis kept it sweet and emotional, writing a five-word message, “Pampering Mom for her birthday….Love you.” He even added a birthday track from Busy Signal to set the mood.

Another story showed the two enjoying a cozy lunch at a BBQ spot, smiling and soaking up the day. There, too, in the caption, he made sure to write “Happy Birthday” for his beloved momma. But he didn’t stop there!

Lewis also took his mom for a ride, vibing to the background music, sharing laughs, and telling her how much he loves her. Buffy, on the other hand, beaming with joy, kept the love flowing right back with her sweet “I love you” messages. No doubt, it was a day full of love, gratitude, and celebration—and a reminder that no matter how big your legacy gets, nothing beats showing up for the woman who’s been there from day one.

For Ray Lewis, his mom is a hero

The Ravens’ former linebacker spoke for 33 minutes and 17 seconds while being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in the enshrinement ceremony. Although Ray Lewis talked about football, God, and the opportunity, he didn’t miss talking about his momma. He said, “Mama taught me God. Mama, you gave me every opportunity. No matter how hard it was, I watched you. And at 10 years old, I made a vow, a man would never put his hands on you again. I made a promise to that. I always had your back. You sacrificed for me. That’s true love.”

He further added a quote of Martin Luther King, saying, “‘Love is the most durable power in the world.’ And my life has been a testament to his words. All I learned is from your example, Mama. They asked me all the time, ‘Who was your sports hero growing up?’ My mama. My mama couldn’t make it to my football games. My mama made it to one football game I ever played in. One! [It was] 1985, first time.”

Ray Lewis’ mom, Sunseria “Buffy” Smith, went through a tough life, raising her kids on her own while working hard just to make ends meet. Seeing her struggle, Lewis made a promise as a young boy—that one day, she’d never have to work again. And he’s kept that promise, honoring her love and sacrifices every single day.

That’s why, on her birthday this year, Ray Lewis poured his heart out in a post on Instagram, writing, “My Hero!!!! Mother thank you 🙏🏿 Happy Birthday!! But we both know everyday is Mother’s Day!! My best friend forever!!!” The two indeed share a strong bond, respecting and loving each other wholeheartedly!