Virgil Starks, Auburn's Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Support Services, died Saturday evening of cardiac arrest while returning from the Tigers' football game against Tennessee-Martin. He was 46.

"Words can’t express the feelings of sorrow and mourning that we have at the passing of our dear friend Virgil Starks," Auburn Athletics Director Jay Jacobs said. "Virgil was passionate about all facets of his life and cared for Auburn student-athletes as if they were his own children. He will be dearly missed by all that he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with Virgil’s family, friends and our Auburn Family in these difficult times."

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Tigers Unlimited Foundation in memory of Virgil Starks. All donations will benefit Starks’ passion, the academic and life-skills enhancement of Auburn student-athletes.

Starks is survived by his wife, Donna, and three daughters, Carolyn, Victoria, and Anastasia.

Memorial arrangements will be provided when they become available.