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Nick Wagoner, ESPN Team Scribbler
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The youngest daughter of San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward later died battling problems at center.
Ward posted on Instagram that her daughter, Amani Pleasure, died Monday morning. I used to show the 2 year old crop in November.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy, passed away Monday morning,” Ward wrote Tuesday on Instagram. “She was the best blessing we could have asked for and her joyful spirit made us smile from ear to ear. She taught us patience, confidence and a positive attitude towards life. She showed us true strength and courage. She overcame adversity from little and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile. Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better. She will always be dad’s best friend and mom’s little girl. We will miss you. and we will love you forever, Amani Joy.”
During a December appearance on former teammate Arik Armstead’s podcast, Ward explained that Amani Pleasure was born with discomfort syndrome and two holes in his center, one of which required surgery.
The Niners, who are off this time, said in a statement Tuesday that the group is “devastated” by his death.
“Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to everyone around her with her sweet demeanor and infectious laugh,” the staff mentioned in their comment. “We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, as we send them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”
Throughout her breakout 2023 season, during which she earned her first Professional Bowl nod and was a second-team All-Pro, Ward often pointed to her daughter’s 2022 start as her inspiration.
