Randy Smith, the longtime sports editor and columnist for the Manchester Journal-Inquirer, died today. He was 61.

According to the Associated Press, Smith collapsed today and died at Manchester Memorial Hospital.

I didn't know Randy very well, only getting to know him a little better towards the end of this, my first year on the UConn men's basketball beat. He was always friendly and quick with a witty quip whenever we'd meet.

My sincerest condolences to Randy's family.