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http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23236973/erin-popovich-wife-san-antonio-spurs-coach-gregg-popovich-dies-wednesday

Erin Popovich, the wife of San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, died early Wednesday, the team announced. She was 67 and had been battling an illness for an extended period.

The couple had been married for four decades and had two children -- Jill and Mickey -- as well as two grandchildren.

"We mourn the loss of Erin," Spurs general manager R.C. Buford said. "She was a strong, wonderful, kind, intelligent woman who provided love, support and humor to all of us."

Erin and Gregg Popovich were married while he worked as an assistant coach at the Air Force Academy from 1973 to 1979. Erin's father, Jim Conboy, was a former athletic trainer for the Falcons.

Terrible news. I'm speechless. Nothing but sympathy for Pop's and his family.

Rest in peace, Erin Popovich.

So very sad. I hope Pop and family are surrounded with the love and support they need to help them get through this trying time. My deepest sympathies to them all.

It sounds as though Erin left a lasting impact on all those whose lives intertwined with hers. I hope that is of some comfort for her family and loved ones going forward.

Sending warm thoughts to Pop and his family xx Godspeed.

Some touching tributes in honour of Erin Popovich:




And some fan support for Pop as he and his family endure this heartache:

My condolences and prayers to Pop and his family during this time of passing. Death isn't an easy subject to talk about. Especially when a loved leaves their relatives behind.

RIP

I've only ever shared this once on RealGM, when Monty Williams' wife passed (because honestly, why else would I talk about it on a sports forum?), but my wife and son died in a car crash some years ago. I was only 24 and it destroyed me utterly. When I think about what I had and how it felt to lose that, my comprehension is dwarfed by the thought of being able to enjoy that love for 40+ years and then lose it. It's a jarring illustration of how fragile life is and how easily one's entire world can be transformed forever.

Words on a website are completely inadequate to express our sadness and compassion for what Pop is living through, but my heart hurts for him and I hope he's able to find enough peace in time that he can carry on with his life.

Wise counsel for anyone: treasure your time with your people and don't ever decline an opportunity to tell them they're loved.

Sammy, I’m so sorry... There are no words... I’m glad that you found a way through it. It couldn't have been easy to write, but thank you for sharing.

Dealing with death is so hard. But that we all go through it is what makes us be there for one another; we know what it’s like and want to help ease the pain. Not everyone, though, gets to cultivate love, that certain rare kind wrought over time that resonates beyond itself, so that while the loss of the person stings, the love sustains. I hope Pop and his family are guided by it as they make their way forward.

A memorial service will be held to honour Erin Popovich on May 18 for family and friends.

"She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who derived great joy from her family and friends," the obituary stated. "She was a special person that provided much laughter and advice for all. She took great pride in the Spurs success and being part of the Spurs family."

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CHEST Foundation at https://foundation.chestnet.org/donate/ or ThriveWell Cancer Foundation of San Antonio at http://thrivewell.org/donate-today/

https://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/spurs/article/Memorial-service-set-for-Erin-Popovich-12872815.php

My thoughts are with Pop and his family and Erin's loved ones and friends xx