Epie Sona, former San Jose State University football linebacker, died on June 11 at the age of 26.
Sona grew up in San Jose where he graduated from Bellarmine College Preparatory and De Anza College before transferring to SJSU, where he later graduated in 2017 with a business management degree.
During the San Jose native’s time at SJSU, he left a mark at the university and the football team. This was apparent as coaches, teammates and friends left comments and posts all over social media expressing their condolences and sadness for his passing.
“Epie, you were a force of nature, your laughter was infectious, and every life you’ve interacted with has benefitted from experiencing pure joy around you,” Jaylen Wright wrote in a Twitter post. “Rest In Paradise my brother, my friend, my classmate, my teammate. My whole family is sick. Thank you for all that you are.”
Among many of those social media comments, friend and former teammate John Alexander Manigo came forward to praise Sona’s character.
“Epie was a beacon of light, he was always cracking jokes or smiling which was unique because how imposing he was if you didn’t know him,” Manigo said over text. “He was always kind and checking in on others making sure they were alright.”
As friends and family grieve Sona’s death, associate athletics director for football communications and special projects, Lawrence Fan, offered his support and condolences on behalf of SJSU Athletics.
"Our condolences to Epie's family and loved ones. The news of his sudden passing has deeply affected his friends, former teammates, and those who had an opportunity to know him,” Fan stated in an email. “He was a great teammate, admired, respected and loved. We join them in sharing their grief. May Epie rest in peace."
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available to the Spartan Daily.
