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“Sad Day”: Patrick Mahomes, Gracie Hunt & NFL Fraternity Join Millions in Mourning the Sad Demise of Football’s First Lady, Norma Hunt

Published 06/05/2023, 3:38 AM EDT

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Another one of NFL’s most notable figures passed away, just a few weeks after the passing of Chris Smith. June 4 marked the passing of Norma Hunt, a beloved figure in the Kansas City Chiefs community and the cherished widow of founder and former owner Lamar Hunt. The news of her passing was shared by the Hunt family, who shared a lengthy message of mourning and remembrance in honor of her life.

Originally known as the Dallas Texans, the Kansas City Chiefs were a part of the American Football League (AFL) from 1960 to 1962. Following the team’s relocation to Kansas City in 1963 by owner Lamar Hunt (who passed away on December 13, 2006), they adopted their current name, the Chiefs. Norma, Lamar’s wife, married him in 1964 and played an instrumental role in his sports franchise journey, including the renaming of the Lombardi Trophy.

Norma Hunt, the only woman to attend all 57 Super Bowls

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Norma, the second wife of Lamar Hunt, was an exceptional woman in the sports industry. Her consistent presence in the game over the decades earned her the title of ‘First Lady of Football.’ She also played a pivotal role in the naming of the Super Bowl. The inspiration for the name “Super Bowl” came from a Super Ball toy that Norma Hunt had bought for her children. This playful connection sparked an idea in Lamar Hunt’s mind, leading him to humorously write a letter to then-NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, “I have kiddingly called it the ‘Super Bowl,’ which obviously can be improved upon.” Not only that, but Norma is the only woman on record to have attended all 57 SuperBowls in history, which reflects her passion for the sport and her dedication to the NFL.

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After her passing, Norma’s family penned a heartfelt and extensive tribute, via Chiefs: “Our family is deeply saddened by the passing of our mother, Norma. She was a wonderful mother and an extraordinary woman who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.” Continuing on, the heartfelt note expressed Norma’s unwavering and unparalleled dedication to her family and her sports teams. It further reads, “She was by our father Lamar’s side every step of the way – from the merger of the AFL and the NFL to the formation of Major League Soccer, World Championship Tennis, the North American Soccer League, and their founding investment in the Chicago Bulls.”

Besides these, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also released his statement and said that he is fortunate to have known Norma for about 40 years and further talked about her being the pride of the family. He added, “Norma’s sense of family extended to the Chiefs’ organization which she greatly adored. Norma was one of the most passionate fans of the Chiefs and the NFL, and understood and enjoyed every aspect of the game. She loved being around the team and referred to the players as ‘real-life superheroes.”Following her passing, fans and the NFL community expressed their heartfelt messages and condolences for Norma Hunt, including Chief’s QB Patrick Mahomes.

Patrick Mahomes shares heartwarming message on Hunt’s passing

The passing of Norma Hunt deeply affected the Hunt family. Her sudden demise shocked and devastated many, leading to an outpouring of emotional tributes from the NFL community. Norma was also privileged to have watched her team win the Super Bowl this year. Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressed his sentiments.

Norma’s grandchild and heir to the Kansas City Chiefs, Gracie Hunt, also took to Twitter to share her thoughts, writing, “Heaven gained an angel🙏🏼💔.

Prominent American sports columnist Skip Bayless paid his respects.

In addition to these well-known figures, fans also shared their messages of condolences. One fan wrote, “RIP NORMA😇 CHIEFS KINGDOM LOVES YOU.

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Another user commented, “This season is for norma.

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The passing of Norma Hunt has left a profound impact on her family, friends, and fans. Her contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs and her constant support for the sport will always be remembered.

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Rest in Peace, Norma.
You will be missed!
(1938-2023)

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Written by:

Bhwya Sriya

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Bhwya Sriya is an NFL Writer at EssentiallySports. With a Master's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from an esteemed university, Bhwya tries to amalgamate her love for sports with her creativity. Her interest in sports arose when Bhwya represented her district on a race track in school.
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Edited by:

Nidhi