Phil Petty’s family thanks South Carolina fans for outpouring of support

The family of South Carolina quarterback great Phil Petty penned a note to Gamecock fans Monday, four days after his death.

“To all of Phil’s Gamecock Family and Fans who have participated in his journey, we are completely humbled by the outpouring of love and support,” said the note, which was shared through social media. “Phil always spoke of the love, brotherhood and bond that was created during his time at the University of South Carolina. Over the last few days, the presence of all the love and support from all over has validated the family and bond Phil spoke of.

“Thank you for all the love, support and helping to keep Phil’s legacy alive for the years to come.”

Petty, who died on Thursday, starred at USC in the late 1990s and early 2000s under Lou Holtz. He guided South Carolina to a pair of Outback Bowl appearances — USC downed Ohio State on both occasions.

The former Gamecocks signal-caller finished his career with 5,656 passing yards and 28 touchdowns over four seasons in Columbia. He went on to a coaching career that included stops at USC, East Carolina, Hammond School and Gray Collegiate.

Petty, 43, is survived by his wife, Morgan, and children, Sage and McCoy.

Petty’s funeral services will be Tuesday, Aug. 2 at Ocean Drive Presbyterian Church in North Myrtle Beach. The Phil Petty Football Scholarship was established in recent days “to benefit a future Gamecock Football player” and support “a Gamecock Football student-athlete in their drive to personify Phil’s legacy as a Gamecock legend.”

“Phil Petty typified what a Gamecock truly is,” South Carolina athletic director Ray Tanner said. “A native South Carolinian, he was a fighter on the football field, a tremendous person off the field and beloved by all Gamecocks. He was a great friend to many and a wonderful dad and husband. My prayers go out to his wife, Morgan, children, Sage and McCoy, and his many friends.”