Some people build legacies through touchdowns, while others do it through kindness. For Rob Gronkowski, Susan Hurley was the latter. The former New England Patriots star took to Instagram to mourn Hurley, the beloved founder of CharityTeams, who passed away Saturday after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer.

Susan Hurley, a former Patriots cheerleader turned nonprofit pioneer, helped runners and charities raise over $42 million through athletic events like the Boston Marathon. Her platform, CharityTeams, became a lifeline for countless nonprofits and first-time marathoners. “She always did it out of love, her love of the game, her love of people, her love of helping others, and her love for the kids,” Gronkowski wrote. “Without Susan, there would be no Gronk Playground.”

Rob Gronkowski’s tribute reflected a deep personal bond. “She became a good friend of ours and supported our foundation more than words can express,” he added. “Her strength and resilience were truly inspirational, and she will be greatly missed.” The Gronk Playground, a community space on Boston’s Esplanade, stands as part of Hurley’s lasting impact.

The Boston Athletic Association also honored her legacy, writing on X, “The Boston Athletic Association and the global running community mourn the passing of Susan Hurley, a friend and leader who participated in numerous B.A.A. events.” The post credited Hurley for “amplifying the spirit of road running” and elevating the visibility of charitable causes across the world.

Hurley’s family announced that CharityTeams will continue operating under her sons, Max and Ryan McGillivray, to fulfill her commitments to partner organizations. “She was the driving force behind Team MR8,” said Bill and Denise Richard of the Martin Richard Foundation. “We owe its continued success to her and all the charity runners she inspired.”

Susan Hurley’s impact stretched far beyond sports and charity and left an indelible mark on Boston. As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in, reflecting just how many lives she touched.

Other than Rob Gronkowski, many fans pay emotional tribute to the Boston icon

“Special person for sure. Her bright light will be missed,” one fan wrote, capturing the collective heartbreak over Hurley’s passing. Others remembered her as more than just a charity leader; they saw her as a force of good. “Truly such an incredible woman. The world was better with Susan,” another added.

“Special person for sure. Her bright light will be missed,” one fan wrote, capturing the collective heartbreak over Hurley’s passing. Others remembered her as more than just a charity leader; they saw her as a force of good. “Truly such an incredible woman. The world was better with Susan,” another added.

Many reflected on Hurley’s partnership with Rob Gronkowski, particularly their work together on the Gronk Playground and other charity projects. “You and Susan were an incredible team, not just on the playground project, but on every fundraiser leading up to it,” one fan commented. “The amount of smiles that you and Susan put on so many young people’s faces is immeasurable. Thanks to the playground, she will continue to spread smiles for decades to come. RIP Susan.”

Others offered personal gratitude and condolences to Gronk. “Been thinking of you ❤️ I know how special she was to you. I’m forever grateful she gave me the opportunity to run for your team. She’s such a special human and always will be,” one user wrote.

Even those who didn’t know Hurley personally were moved by her story. “I don’t know her, but I love her story! We need more stories like this shared today. I’m grateful she found purpose for good and is being celebrated by so many. God bless,” one comment read.

Another fan summed up the collective sentiment perfectly: “Susan was absolutely incredible. The work you and her did for the playground was amazing. Sending love and condolences.”

As fans made clear, her legacy continues to inspire: one life, one smile, and one story at a time.