UNC remembers legendary coach Dean Smith with public memorial

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The University of North Carolina held a public memorial service for Dean Smith on Sunday.

IMAGES: Dean Smith remembered at UNC memorial service

The legendary UNC-Chapel Hill basketball coach died Feb. 7 at the age of 83.

Smith was the head coach of the Tar Heels from 1961-1997, retiring with 879 wins and two national championships.

Legendary UNC basketball coach Dean Smith dies

The service was held in the Dean E. Smith Center, or Dean Dome.

When Channel 9’s Stephanie Maxwell arrived at the center around 11 a.m., a line had already formed outside, even though the doors didn't open until 1 p.m.

Maxwell, a UNC graduate, said that one fan said he got to the Dean Dome at 3:30 a.m. to make sure he had a seat for the celebration.

She also talked to a Salisbury man who was one of the first in line, and he said he is the No. 1 UNC fan.

When Maxwell asked why, the man said that Smith called him that. He was heartbroken when Smith died earlier this month.

UNC Chancellor Carol L. Folt welcomed the public to the memorial. She called Smith a  "great American and true Tar Heel.

Woody Durham, a former Tar Heel sports announcer, introduced the speakers. Several of Dean Smith's former players, including Eric Montross, Antawn Jamison and Brad Daugherty gave their regards.

"Coach Smith was an even better human being than basketball coach," Daugherty said.

"I don't think my teammates realized how privileged we were to be the last team to play for him," Jamison told those who attended the service.

Current UNC basketball coach Roy Williams, former Georgetown University basketball coach John Thompson and former UNC system president Erskine Bowles also spoke.

"We're finished with grieving, because it's been hard. We're celebrating the life of Coach Dean E. Smith," Williams said.

Dean Smith's daughter, Kristen Smith, said their family has been overwhelmed by the condolences and stories shared.

UNC basketball said 200 former Tar Heel lettermen attended Sunday's service.

Read more past coverage:

• Smith's impact goes beyond UNC, basketball after his death
• Social media updates: Dean Smith dies at 83

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