Happy Heavenly Birthday, Sweetness!

Photo by Mike Powell/Allsport/Getty Images

Time is finite.

The older we get, the more tangible that reality feels.

While all people come and go, few have lasting impacts.

Few have ever run with such grace, elegance, power and determination on the field. Even fewer were even more impactful off it.

Former Chicago Bears all-time legend Walter Payton is one such individual whose legacy carries on. Today, July 25th, 2025, ‘Sweetness’ would have turned 72 years young. On a week where we also lost celebrities Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Ozzy Osbourne, Chuck Mangione, and Hulk Hogan - we take a moment to honor their legacy on the day of one of the greatest human beings (and football

players) to walk the planet.

May Sweetness be one of the first to welcome them in the afterlife.

My wife’s inspired idea led our fam on a journey through #Chicago, visiting places that honor my father’s legacy: Halas Hall, WP College Prep, the WP Liver Center, & his statue. Celebrating his bday this way keeps his spirit alive in us & the ppl who loved him. ⬇️ #Bears pic.twitter.com/mJO0mzWz4k

— Jarrett Payton (@paytonsun) July 25, 2025

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On a personal note, this morning I had the honor of participating in the most gut-wrenching task that any dog-owner/lover will ever be a part of - putting my girl down. Named after Sweetness himself, Payten (spelled differently intentionally) got her wings today.

Payten with her daddy and youngest sister in the summer of ‘24.

This 15-year-old boxer-mix was the sweetest, most gracious and elegant, yet powerful runner and loyal companion I have ever met. I had no idea today was also Walter’s birthday, but when I learned of the divine entanglement, I had to take a moment to share my praises and honor.

Happy Birthday, Sweetness - and happy heavenly birthday to the sweetest friend I have ever had.

Bear Down, everyone. Hug someone today.

Baby Payten at 6wks old on the way home for the first time.

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