Ronnie Hillman, a Super Bowl champion and NFL player, died at the age of 31.

“The family wishes to convey their appreciation for all of the prayers and kind words that have already been shared. We would appreciate it if you could allow us some room and time to process our emotions as we prepare to bury our beloved RJ.”

“Further information will be made available shortly,” they concluded. ” With best wishes, The Family.”

Ronnie’s death was announced in a statement sent by his family.

Just the day before, his family broke the news to him about his illness by writing: “Despite the fact that expressing this information is tough, we believe doing so is vital.”