Willie Mays, one of the greatest baseball players ever recently, passed away on June 18, 2024, at the age of 93, leaving his family and fans overwhelmed.
In response to this tragic news, Willie’s godson, Barry Bonds, shared an emotional post on his Instagram, expressing his deep sentiments for Willie Mays.
Barry Bonds further expressed his gratitude for having Willie as his godfather and how words cannot explain what Willie meant to him.
Furthermore, Barry Bonds always admires Willie’s guidance and contribution to shaping him into one of the greatest baseball players ever.
Although Willie Mays and Barry Bonds are not blood-related, they shared a bond like father and son.
Moreover, on his social media platforms, Barry often shares pictures of Willie, stating him as his second father.
Willie Mays and Barry Bonds’ father, Bobby, shared connections like brothers
Willie Mays and Bobby Bonds, both significant figures in MLB, played together for several seasons with the San Francisco Giants from 1968 to 1972.
In addition to their professional relationships, they also treated each other like family and shared a strong bond.
This immense connection also led Willie to become Barry Bonds’ godfather, providing him with mentorship and guidance on and off the field.
After Bobby Bonds’s demise on August 23, 2003, Willie Mays stood by Barry’s side, supporting him in all his good and bad times like a father until his last breath.
Furthermore, Willie Mays delivered an emotional speech at Barry Bonds’ retirement ceremony, expressing his pride in Barry’s accomplishments and emphasizing their close relationship.
The intertwined legacies of Willie Mays and Barry Bonds represent a personal connection and unique familial bond that transcended the game.
Additional Information
- Over 22 MLB seasons, Willie Mays was a 24-time All-star and a two-time National League MVP.
- Willie Mays and his first wife, Marghuertie Wendell Chapman, adopted a baby named Michael in 1959.
- After his divorce from Marghuerite, Willie Mays married his second wife, Mae Louise Allen, who passed away on April 19, 2013.
- Barry Bond has two children, Nikolai, Shikari from his first wife, Susann Margreth Branco and one daughter Aisha from his second wife Liz Watson.
- Bonds currently serves as a Special Advisor to the CEO of the San Francisco Giants, providing his expertise.
