Mayor Madeline Rogero issued the following statement this morning on the passing of Coach Pat Summitt:

“Pat Summitt was a great leader, a great coach and most of all a great spirit. She was a towering figure who was also humble and down to earth. She always made it clear that her work was not about her — it was about her players, her teams, and her commitment to excellence in sports, education and life.

It is impossible to overstate her importance as an inspiration to all and, especially, to girls and women everywhere. As a coach, she shaped the lives and characters of hundreds of young women. As a role model, pacing the sidelines, urging her players on, she sparked the confidence and dreams of millions more. The world has lost a great woman, and Knoxville has lost a great friend. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, her friends and Lady Vols everywhere.”

The Henley Bridge will be lit tonight in Lady Vols colors of orange, blue and white.

Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett released the following statement upon the passing of legendary University of Tennessee Lady Vols Head Coach Pat Summitt:

“Pat Head Summitt was more than a legendary basketball coach; she was a legendary person. Her character went beyond the basketball court, and she worked to ensure her players knew the same was expected of them. Our families have known each other since they all lived in middle Tennessee years ago, when my grandfather was her family’s banker. She was always kind to my family, and I appreciate her encouraging words when my parents passed away. I pray that Tyler and the rest of Pat’s family can find peace at this time. She will be missed.”