NFL World In Mourning After Top-Ranking Executive’s Wife Tragically Passed Away
NFL executive Alonzo Highsmith is mourning the passing of his wife of 35 years following her sudden death at the age of 61.
According to a memorial service flyer shared via her Instagram page this week, Denise Chong Highsmith passed away unexpectedly. Her cause of death is unknown.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved mother, wife, sister, and friend, Denise Elizabeth Highsmith,”
“Denise was truly one of a kind—a fun, loving, and free-spirited soul who embraced everyone without judgment,” it added. “She poured into the lives of others with kindness, laughter, and service, and in doing so, she found joy and fulfillment. To know her was to feel seen, loved, and uplifted.
“… Denise will forever be remembered for the light she brought into the world, and her spirit will live on in all of us 💜.”
The couple celebrated their 35th anniversary in June.
Monica Taylor, the wife of Miami Dolphins icon and Miami Hurricanes defensive line coach Jason Taylor, said Denise died last week.
“So grateful to have shared such great memories together! She was a light to everyone around her. We will miss you so much, Denise!”
Monica went viral this week after ‘Monday Night Football’ cameras panned to her while she was sitting on her husband’s lap.
Alonzo Highsmith Hasn’t Spoken Publicly About His Wife’s Death
The University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame and Museum confirmed the news in a Facebook post. Alonzo, a former running back who was inducted there in 1997, has not addressed his wife’s passing publicly.
The 60-year-old played for the Hurricanes in the early 1980s and was drafted as the third overall pick by the Houston Oilers in 1987. He played in the NFL for five years, also suiting up for the Dallas Cowboys.
He currently works as a senior personnel executive for the New England Patriots, taking up the role last July. The team also hired his son, A.J. Highsmith, as their director of pro scouting this May.
News of his wife’s passing follows the death of a former Pats exec who helped the team draft Tom Brady.
Alonzo Highsmith was also the general manager of football operations at Miami U from 2022-23 and, before that, was the senior executive advisor to the Seattle Seahawks. He was a senior personnel executive with the
Our thoughts are with him and his family, as well as everyone else touched by the death of his wife Denise.
May she rest in peace.
