Denise Chong Highsmith, Wife of NFL Exec Alonzo Highsmith, Dies Unexpectedly at 61

Denise Chong Highsmith, wife of NFL executive and former star running back Alonzo Highsmith, has died unexpectedly at age 61. The family announced her passing via social media, describing her as a loving, free-spirited soul who embraced others without judgment and brought light to those around her. Denise and Alonzo had recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary, though Alonzo has not publicly commented on her death. Tributes poured in from the football community, with Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones calling her a mother figure and expressing his grief. Alonzo Highsmith, a former Miami Hurricanes standout and NFL running back, is currently a senior personnel executive for the New England Patriots, where his son A.J. also works. Funeral services are scheduled in Houston and Miami, but the cause of Denise's death has not been disclosed.