Earvin Johnson Sr., father of Lansing Everett, Michigan State, and Los Angeles Lakers star Magic Johnson, has died. He was 88 years old.

Magic announced the news Thursday via social media.

Get our free mobile app

Magic has long credited his father for his basketball prowess, as well as his work ethic. Earvin Sr. worked for General Motors in Lansing for many years. He also worked several jobs at once to support his family, which lived on Middle Street on the city of Lansing's West Side.

Magic eulogized his father on social media:

I'm truly heartbroken. Last night I lost my biggest supporter, my best friend, my hero, my idol, my father, Earvin Johnson Sr. Since I was a little boy, I wanted to be just like my dad. My father was the hardest working man I've ever known. He worked 2-3 jobs at any given time to provide for his family and never made excuses. appreciate him so much for instilling that trait in me and teaching me the importance of education, having an impeccable work ethic, respecting myself and others, how to dress, how to be a man, having integrity and so much more. I never had to look outside of my home for an example, he was the best role model I ever had. He was the first person who told me if I put my time in, worked hard, and did what I was supposed to do, I would make it to the NBA.

...

Dad, thank you. For every lesson you taught me, every time you supported me, and for being the best father, man and example a son could ever have. Everything I've done in life is because I wanted to make you proud. From basketball to business to being a husband, father and grandfather, who I am and what I am is because of Earvin Johnson Sr. What a tremendous honor it is to be named Earvin Johnson Jr. I love you forever!

KEEP READING: Scroll to see what the big headlines were the year you were born

Here's a look at the headlines that captured the moment, spread the word, and helped shape public opinion over the last 100 years.