Sports World Thinking Of Michael Smith After His Beautiful Tribute To Late Wife

Sports fans and media members around the world are keeping former ESPN broadcaster Michael Smith in their thoughts.

Smith's wife, Sarah Owens Smith, passed away on December 15, 2025 after a two-year battle with glioblastoma. They were married for 20 years and shared three children: Savannah, Mason, and Maya.

"Sarah's leadership extended to her role as the former community service chair for the Greater Hartford Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., where she led initiatives to uplift and empower Black children and give back to the local community. Sarah's thoughtfulness and creativity energized every project she undertook," her obituary stated. "However, don't take Sarah's kindness for weakness - she achieved a black belt in Taekwondo, a testament to her determination and strength. Her versatility didn't stop there - she would truly find her voice as the host of the "Stay-At-Home Mom? Yeah Right!" podcast, where she curated intimate conversations that encouraged and informed mothers around the world."

During an appearance on 104.3 The Score this Thursday, Smith shared a powerful message about his wife.

"I've found peace in talking about my wife as opposed to talking about the struggle that she endured for two years," Smith said. "She was the most thoughtful, selfless, generous, caring, dedicated person you'd ever want to meet. I know you hear that about a lot of people, but my wife was an angel. She remembered everybody's birthday, she sent thank you cards for everything, she bought gifts for everyone. People say there's no playbook for parenthood, but I beg to differ. She was an incredible mother."

Media members offer their support to the Smith family.

Those who worked with Smith during his time at ESPN had heartfelt responses to his tribute on Thursday.

"I know Mike would never make this about himself, but his dedication to his wife as she battled glioblastoma represented the kind of love between two people that is just so rare. Sarah was his everything and vice versa. As he said many times, it was his honor to take care of her," Jemele Hill wrote. "Sarah's memorial service was befitting of a queen - because that's what she was. She was a tremendous wife, mother, daughter, friend, neighbor and community member. She was the type of woman you strive to be."

"One of the best men i'll ever know," former ESPN star Bomani Jones added.

"Much love to Michael & his family. He's a tremendous brother. The few times I met his wife, Sarah, she seemed absolutely wonderful. Prayers up for the whole family," longtime NBA reporter Chris Broussard said.

"What a beautiful remembrance," Andrew Marchand of The Athletic wrote.

"I can not properly convey to you the love and care I witnessed this man give during her battle," former ESPN host Elle Duncan said. "It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."

There's no question Smith is a beloved figure in the sports media industry.

We're keeping Smith and his family in our thoughts.

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This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 4:25 PM.