Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of the late Basketball Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69, as reported by La Salle University’s athletics department.

According to La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, as cited by The Philadelphia Inquirer, Joe had recently suffered a stroke. The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

La Salle University, where Joe both played and coached, released a statement honoring him as “a beloved member of the Explorer family who will be dearly missed.”

A notable player in his own right, Joe was drafted 14th overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA draft. His career included stints with the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the San Diego Clippers for three seasons, and the Houston Rockets for one season. He also played professionally in Europe.

The 76ers paid tribute to Joe, referring to him as “a local basketball icon whose legacy on the court extended from Bartram High School to La Salle University, and through his early NBA career with the 76ers from 1975-79.”

Joe’s passing comes four years after the tragic deaths of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna, who were killed in a helicopter crash along with seven others.

Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, shared her condolences on Instagram, stating, “Sending our condolences upon hearing the news of my father-in-law’s passing. We hoped things would’ve been different. Although the times we spent together were few, he was always sweet and nice to be around. Kobe loved him very much.”

Former Kobe teammate Doug Young described Joe as the ideal “role model.” “Joe was our JV coach at Lower Merion, and I could not have asked for a more positive mentor, teacher, and role model,” Young told ESPN. “He made basketball fun and inspired us all to be better; he believed in us. I’ll never forget his infectious smile, his bear hugs, and the incredible bond he shared with Kobe. Growing up in Lower Merion, there was no family we loved and admired more than the Bryants, and that began with Joe.”

Arn Tellem, vice chairman of the Pistons and former agent for Kobe Bryant, expressed his sadness over Joe’s passing. “Our friendship allowed me to represent Kobe as he entered the NBA, a memory I’ll always cherish. Joe was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose warmth touched everyone he met.”

May he rest in peace.

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