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Chip Kelly's father died Friday, but his mom wanted him to coach 49ers on Sunday

The father of San Francisco 49ers head coach Chip Kelly died Friday night, Kelly confirmed after Sunday’s 26-6 loss to the Chicago Bears.

Paul Kelly, a retired trial lawyer from New Hampshire, practiced law for more than 40 years. Chip Kelly flew to New Hampshire late Friday night after hearing the news and the team was making plans for him to return there after Sunday’s game to be with his mother, Jean.

Chip Kelly, left, coached with a heavy heart Sunday after the death of his father Friday. (AP)
Chip Kelly, left, coached with a heavy heart Sunday after the death of his father Friday. (AP)

Bears head coach John Fox gave Kelly an extended hug on the field after the game. After meeting with the media, Kelly left separately in a black SUV from Soldier Field, according to the Chicago Tribune.

According to CSNBayArea.com, Kelly coached Sunday because, he said, “my mom wanted me to coach.”

The loss was the 11th in a row for the 49ers, the longest losing streak in franchise history. The team learned of the news when general manager Trent Baalke informed the players during a meeting Saturday morning.

In a statement issued Sunday night, Baalke said:

“The thoughts and prayers of the entire San Francisco 49ers organization are with Chip and his family as they face the difficult process of grieving the loss of a loved one. Understandably, coach will take some time to be with his family before returning to the team this week. Chip has our continued support as he mourns the passing of his father.”

Kelly will not participate in his usual Monday news conference. It is not clear when he will rejoin the team.

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Eric Edholm is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at edholm@yahoo-inc.com or follow him on Twitter!