49ers' Charvarius Ward announces death of his 1-year-old daughter in heartbreaking post: 'Dad's best friend'

Absolute tragedy struck for San Francisco 49ers starting cornerback Charvarius Ward and his family when their one-year-old daughter Amani Joy suddenly passed away.

The team released a statement expressing their “love and support” for Ward and his girlfriend Monique Cook.

“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden death of Charvarius Ward's beloved 1-year-old daughter, Amani Joy. Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to everyone around her with her sweet demeanor and infectious laugh.”

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San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward after the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium. (Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images)

“We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique and send them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”

Ward also shared the news on Instagram, sharing a picture of a smiling Amani Joy with a heartbreaking caption.

“We are heartbroken to learn that our beautiful little girl, Amani Joy, passed away on Monday morning. She was the best blessing we could have asked for and her joyful attitude had us smiling from ear to ear. She taught us to have patience and trust. and a positive attitude towards life showed us true strength and bravery from a young age, was always happy and lit up every room with her smile.

“The privilege of being their parents and seeing the world through their eyes has changed us for the better. She will forever be daddy's best friend and mommy's little girl. We will miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”

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The San Francisco Chronicle detailed Ward and Cook's parenting earlier this year. Her fear began after a blood test revealed her baby had Down syndrome and an ultrasound revealed a heart defect.

Ward was the optimist in this situation, telling Cook that she would be a beautiful girl and that no matter what happened, they would love and care for her.

Amani underwent open heart surgery 10 months after birth and Ward admitted that seeing his baby at night when he put him down to sleep filled him with joy.

San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward attempts to recover the ball after an incomplete pass by the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium. (Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images)

“I put her in her (crib) and she just looked at me and smiled,” Ward said. “I was like, 'Damn, this is just beautiful.' And I love the feeling she gave me when she smiled.

It's a devastating loss that, as the 49ers said, is unimaginable.

The 49ers have their bye week this week and it's safe to say the team will give Ward as much time as he needs to mourn his loss.

Ward, a 28-year-old undrafted free agent, is in his seventh NFL season. He began his career with the Kansas City Chiefs, helping the team win a Super Bowl before joining the 49ers in 2022.

He was a second-team All-Pro corner last season after totaling five interceptions, 23 passes defended to lead the league and 72 combined tackles.