It’s often true that the love for an individual cannot be fully understood until that person is gone.
This theory isn’t true for Green Bay Packers legend Bart Starr, who was adored in Wisconsin, across the NFL world and in many other walks of life, but the outpouring of responses after Starr’s passing Sunday reinforced just how respected and loved he really was, both as a player and a man.
Here’s a sampling of the social media reactions from former players and others inside the NFL after the loss of Starr, who died at age 85:
"A champion on & off the field, Bart epitomized class & was beloved by generations of Packers fans."
Hall of Famer Bart Starr passes away at 85: https://t.co/lAA1JBAJZ5 pic.twitter.com/z6689wXvbY
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) May 26, 2019
Bart Starr was the most kind, thoughtful and classiest person you could ever know. I consider myself extremely lucky to have called him friend and to have been mentioned in the same breath. Deanna and I are praying for Cherry and the Starr family. #RIPBartStarr
— Brett Favre (@BrettFavre) May 26, 2019
Bart Starr was a true gentleman and one of the kindest people I knew. I had elbow surgery following our ‘95 Super Bowl in Birmingham and Bart made a visit to the hospital. To this day, not sure how he even knew I was there. #ripbart
— Troy Aikman (@TroyAikman) May 26, 2019
You will he missed & Forever Remembered.
I know how much you meant to the State of Wisconsin and @NFL all over the world!
Heaven just got another great QB! 🙏🏾 #BartStarr pic.twitter.com/Hhn1TVynRk
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) May 26, 2019
Always was struck at how kind Bart and Cherry Starr were when they came through our @packers offices. They wanted to know about each employee, no matter what level, and what they did. And they never, ever wanted anyone to fuss over them. Such grace. #BartStarr
— Andrew Brandt (@AndrewBrandt) May 26, 2019
Saddened to hear the news that one of my idols #BartStarr has passed away… one of those rare GREAT players that was a WAY better human being than fball player! He touched so many and will be deeply missed – the world needs more like him!
— Kurt Warner (@kurt13warner) May 26, 2019
Saddened to hear the news that one of my idols #BartStarr has passed away… one of those rare GREAT players that was a WAY better human being than fball player! He touched so many and will be deeply missed – the world needs more like him!
— Kurt Warner (@kurt13warner) May 26, 2019
I’m saddened to learn of the passing of Bart Starr. His legacy has touched many people and I’m lucky to be one of those that was inspired by his spirit. Thank you for being the ultimate role model for professional athletes. Rest in Heaven
— Calais Campbell (@CalaisCampbell) May 26, 2019
Bart Starr and his wife Cherry are two of the finest people that Linda and I have had the opportunity to know. Bart was a great player, Champion, leader and most importantly an incredible human being. RIP Bart Starr. https://t.co/89QpOl3JcN
— John Lynch (@JohnLynch49ers) May 26, 2019
Rest In Peace, Bart Starr. One of our league’s all-time greats.
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) May 26, 2019
Today we mourn with the rest of the football world. Our sincere condolences to the Packers and the Starr family. https://t.co/QBnRt0C0iN
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) May 26, 2019
Football lost a legend today. Bart Starr, the best 17th round pick in NFL history. Tom Brady was drafted No. 199 and Starr was No. 200. Six Super Bowl MVPs between them. The @seniorbowl sends our condolences to the Starr family. pic.twitter.com/mmNgHzu1s0
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) May 26, 2019
Mannn. Rest In Peace To An Absolute Legend And Warrior, Bart Starr! pic.twitter.com/nZyYnh9tpU
— Jalen Hurts (@JalenHurts) May 26, 2019
Bart Starr is a legend in so many ways! I am so sad to hear this news today. I remember first meeting him my rookie year at the Lombardi golf classic. He always had time for everyone and made everyone around him better. Praying for Cherry and their family on this sad day. https://t.co/kSDVQTEXJ4
— Mason Crosby (@crosbykicks2) May 26, 2019
I only got to meet you a few times but each time you reminded me of what an impact you can have by just being good person. One of the nicest people Ive been blessed to know and the epitome of what it means to be a professional athlete! RIP Bart Starr
— John Kuhn (@kuhnj30) May 26, 2019
