Remembering Franco: Steelers, NFL Communities Mourn Death of Franco Harris

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers and NFL communities were saddened to learn of the death of Hall of Fame Steelers running back Franco Harris on Wednesday at the age of 72.

As soon as the news of the passing of the beloved star of the Immaculate Reception and four Super Bowl winnings teams spread, an outpouring of love and admiration returned from around the world.

We’ll continue to update this file with accumulated remembrances of Harris, his career and his life.

FORMER PITTSBURGH STEELERS HEAD COACH BILL COWHER

“We have lost an Icon in Franco Harris. He embodied Pgh in his Grace, Humility, & Sense of Pride. He was a Champion on the Field & Ambassador off it. Thank you Franco for setting the standard that we all strive to achieve as a Professional & as a Person. RIP & condolences to Dana.”

FORMER STEELERS QUARTERBACK BEN ROETHLISBERGER

“Today we lost a Legend, not just on the field, but even more so off. Franco always had a smile and a hand shake or a hug for everyone, it seemed. Thank you for being a role model for us all!”

HALL OF FAME STEELERS RUNNING BACK JEROME BETTIS

“Words can’t begin to describe the pain I am feeling. Franco will always be a brother, mentor and my definition of greatness. He was a legend on the field and the personification of excellence off of the field– A true class act to look up to and aspire to be like. RIP #32″

FORMER STEELERS DEFENSIVE BACK, ASSISTANT COACH TONY DUNGY

“Woke up this morning to the devastating news that my friend Franco Harris passed away during the night. One of the kindest, gentlest men I have ever known. He was a great person & great teammate. Hall of Fame player but so much more than that. A tremendous role model for me!”

STEELERS RB NAJEE HARRIS

“Rest In Peace to a great man who showed so much support for me. He was way more than just an athlete he was an icon and a role model to so many people.”

STEELERS LINEBACKER T.J. WATT

“The ultimate Steeler. His actions on and off the field are truly inspirational. Rest easy Franco.”

Steelers Quarterback Kenny Pickett

RIP to the man who made my dream become reality…grateful for the few times that we were able to speak…Fly High Franco!”

NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the unexpected passing of Franco Harris. He meant so much to Steelers fans as the Hall of Fame running back who helped form the nucleus of the team’s dynasty of the ’70s, but he was much more. He was a gentle soul who touched so many in the Pittsburgh community and throughout the entire NFL. Franco changed the way people thought of the Steelers, of Pittsburgh, and of the NFL. He will forever live in the hearts of Steelers fans everywhere, his teammates, and the city of Pittsburgh. Our condolences go out to his wife, Dana, and their son, Dok.”

JIM PORTER, PRESIDENT, PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

“The entire team at the Pro Football Hall of Fame is immensely saddened today. We have lost an incredible football player, an incredible ambassador to the Hall and, most importantly, we have lost one of the finest gentlemen anyone will ever meet. Franco not only impacted the game of football, but he also affected the lives of many, many people in profoundly positive ways.”

DR. PATRICK KRAFT, PENN STATE VP FOR INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS

“As a child growing up in the Midwest, Franco Harris was a legendary figure, who I was always enamored with. When I was blessed to join the Penn State family earlier this year, I was fortunate enough to get to know Franco and his wife, Dana, very well. They have been so gracious with their kindness and support. Franco was known for his grit and unrelenting style on the field but his compassion, warmth, generosity off the field will leave a lasting impression on me. I am heartbroken for all who loved him. We have lost a true legend and friend.”

FORMER PENN STATE AD SANDY BARBOUR

“Such sad news this morning about the passing of Franco Harris. He was the pure definition of a servant leader. Such a great Penn Stater and always pursued what was best for Penn State. My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the family. Rest easy Franco.”

FORMER STEELERS WIDE RECEIVER HINES WARD

”I’m devastated to hear about Franco’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to Dana and the family. We lost a great man who was very dear to me. Franco was the best human being I’ve ever met. I will cherish our time together. Thanks for your wisdom and advice. RIP Franco!”

FORMER STEELERS GUARD ALAN FANECA

“This mornings news stung. Having known Franco all these years, but especially getting closer to him and Dana these last ten years or so makes today hard. He is so much more than that one catch. What a generous, kind, loving man. He lit up every room he walked in. Pittsburgh, Steeler Nation, and everyone who has had the privilege of meeting Franco mourn our loss today. We love you Franco!”

FORMER STEELERS CORNERBACK DWAYNE WOODRUFF 

“On Saturday afternoon (12.17.2022) I had the honor of presenting Franco with an award at the Achieving Greatness banquet. Extremely SAD that that is the last time I will see him. RWG my friend.”

PENN STATE HEAD COACH JAMES FRANKLIN

“Our thoughts are with Franco Harris’ wife, Dana, and we send our deepest condolences to his entire family, his friends, the Steelers organization and all whose lives were impacted by Franco. His professional career and accomplishments speak for itself as a Pro Football Hall of Famer, four-time Super Bowl Champion and nine-time Pro Bowl selection, but it was his toughness and team-first approach as a Nittany Lion that will long be remembered by Penn Staters. Franco was a true steward of the Blue & White and he will be sorely missed.”

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

“The Raiders Family was saddened to learn of the passing of Pittsburgh Steelers legend Franco Harris this morning. Franco was an unmatched competitor on the field and one of the game’s great ambassadors throughout his life. From his role in the ‘Immaculate Reception’ as a rookie to countless battles on the gridiron, Franco will always be an important part of Raiders history. He was a generous person who brought happiness to everyone he touched. The prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with his wife Dana and the Harris family during this difficult time.”

KENDRA STABLER, DAUGHTER OF FORMER RAIDERS QB KENNY STABLER 

“Very sad news this morning. Will always remember his kindness and class when he visited us in San Francisco to congratulate us on my Dad being chosen for.” to congratulate us on my Dad being chosen for
@ProFootballHOF. Rest in Peace @francoharrishof🙏🏻.”

FORMER UNITED STATES PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

“I grew up watching Franco Harris, and had the honor of getting to know him years later. He was an extraordinary man on and off the field, and will be missed. Our thoughts go out to his family and all of Steeler Nation.”

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PLAYERS ASSOCIATION DEMAURICE SMITH

“Franco was a strong supporter of both this union and trade unions everywhere. He understood that working people need to help each other. Many will discuss his place in the game, but those who knew him best will talk about his love for people. Thank you, my friend. I’ll miss you.”

FORMER STEELERS RB MERRIL HOGE

“As great of a player Franco Harris was and making the greatest play in NFL History, he was a better human–and that is what I will miss.  He is the centerpiece of a city and a franchise that will never forget him. Love you Franco, RIP!”

FORMER STEELERS RB JAMES CONNER

“Long live the Legend Franco Harris. Franco is Pittsburgh! I’m honored to have known him. Sending love and prayers to his family and the community.”

FORMER STEELERS LB RYAN SHAZIER

”Today we lost a legend and an incredible human being in Franco Harris. He epitomized what it meant to be a Steeler and a leader in the Pittsburgh community. Franco brought joy to everyone he was around and he will be missed.”

PENNSYLVANIA GOVERNOR TOM WOLF

“Deeply saddened by the loss of Franco Harris. Just two months ago, he joined me in Harrisburg to celebrate the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception. Franco was a Steelers legend, on and off the field. Sending condolences to his family and all who knew him.”

GOVERNOR-ELECT, PA ATTORNEY GENERAL JOSH SHAPIRO

“This weekend was meant to be a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception. It’s now a celebration of his life and legacy on and off the field from State College to Pittsburgh.Franco was my friend and an inspiration to so many. Lori and I send our love to Dana and their family. May his memory be a blessing.”

UNITED STATES SENATOR-ELECT, PA LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR JOHN FETTERMAN

“Gisele and I are devastated by this news. We are sending our deepest condolences to Franco’s family. Franco was a true legend and icon on and off the field. He was a truly selfless man. It was an honor to have gotten to know him over the years. I will miss him dearly.”

MAYOR OF PITTSBURGH, ED GAINEY

”CommUnity — Pittsburgh lost a legend today. I ask that you join me in praying for the family and friends of Franco Harris. Not only was he the greatest running back in the history of the Steelers, but a great man off the field whose kindness and generosity was felt by many.”

FORMER MAYOR OF PITTSBURGH BILL PEDUTO  

“Absolutely heartbroken. Franco was everything good that is Pittsburgh. He showed up, unannounced, without cameras, to so many volunteer & charitable events. He constantly gave without asking. He was a warrior for justice. So many positive memories, so little time. RIP #Franco.”

STEELERS RUNNING BACKS COACH EDDIE FAULKNER

“RIP to an absolute legend, Franco Harris! We will work tirelessly to honor you this weekend on the 50th anniversary of the play that changed the tide of an organization and brought a city together!”

FORMER PITT AND COWBOYS RB TONY DORSETT

“Truly heartbreaking news this morning about the death of Franco Harris. A true warrior on the field and a great man off the field. My prayers are with his family dealing with this unexpectedly tragedy. Rest easy, my brother.”

FORMER DOLPHINS RB AND HALL OF FAMER LARRY CSONKA

“Very sad to hear about the passing of Franco Harris. Our teams had some competitive contests. I got to know Franco even better after we retired. Franco was a happy, intelligent, fair-minded man. I’ll miss him and our chats greatly. RIP my friend.”

FORMER JETS CORNERBACK DARRELLE REVIS

”I met Franco Harris. It was at a very young age in my football career. He said to me i have what it takes to be a great football player. I’m just grateful he took the time to say something to encourage me to become a better person and player. Thank you. Rest in paradise, No. 32.”

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS OWNER MARIO LEMIEUX

”We are all stunned and saddened by the passing of the great Franco Harris — a Pittsburgh icon and a true champion on and off the field. Franco will be remembered for his grace, his humility, his kindness, and his tremendous contributions to our community. Rest In Peace.”

FORMER COWBOYS RB EMMITT SMITH

“I’m shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of my friend Franco Harris. Praying for Franco and his loved ones.”

HALL OF FAME RB ERIC DICKERSON

“So sorry to hear of the passing of Franco Harris. A great man and friend.”

HALL OF FAME RB BARRY SANDERS

“My thoughts and prayers are with
@francoharrishof family, teammates, coaches, & friends. A
@ProFootballHOF in football and in LIFE. You will be missed #32.”

FORMER PENN STATE AND NFL LB LAVAR ARRINGTON

“At a loss right now. We lost one of the greatest human beings ever … I want to be sad but the Nittany Lion in me is so proud to call him not only a friend, alum, letterman…he was family. You will be missed Franco.”

HALL OF FAME TIGHT END AND CO-HOST OF FOX SPORTS’ UNDISPUTED SHANNON SHARPE

”He was my mom’s favorite player. I took my third grade pictures in a No. 32 Steelers jersey. Franco was a great, honest, humble man. I’m better now that I’ve met him, known him and consider him a friend.”

FORMER STEELERS LB ARTHUR MOATS

“Legendary guy both on and off the field. You will be missed. RIP Franco Harris.”

COLTS OWNER JIM IRSAY

“Rest in peace, Franco Harris. An NFL icon, and the author of one of the most incredible plays in sports history.”

49ERS GENERAL MANAGER JOHN LYNCH

”One of the kindest people I’ve ever met. He was so much apart of the NFL my generation grew up watching, a true legend. When I had the opportunity to meet Franco what always stood our was how good he was to everyone. God Bless and Rest In Peace Franco.”

LT. GOVERNOR-ELECT AUSTIN DAVIS

“Two days before the 50th anniversary of the most significant moment in history, we mourn the loss of Franco Harris, an adopted son of Allegheny County.”

KENTUCKY BASKETBALL COACH JOHN CALIPARI

“Sad day for all of us fans. Our beloved Franco Harris passed away. The Immaculate Reception was only a small part of what made him a legend. Prayers to his family and friends. RIP Franco!

COLLEGE BASKETBALL BROADCASTER DICK VITALE

“Franco was one of the nicest superstars I ever met. May he RIP”

FORMER NFL RB FRANK GORE 

“RIP to a True Legend‼️”

HEINZ HISTORY CENTER AND WESTERN PA SPORTS MUSEUM 

“All of us at the Heinz History Center and Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum are shocked and devastated over the sudden passing of our friend Franco Harris. To us, he was more than an iconic sports figure. Franco was family.”

PITTSBURGH PASSION 

“We were so incredibly blessed to have Franco Harris as a team owner and, more importantly, team friend. He was even more of a legend off the field, he was giving, caring, loyal, kind, funny and was the best kind of person to everyone!! WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU FRANCO!”