Summary
Willie Irvin, a pioneering football player and college hall of famer, passed away at 96. He was the first Black football player from St. Augustine, Florida, to play in the NFL and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1953. Beyond football, Irvin served in the military and had a career in education.
Key Facts
- Willie Irvin died on March 21 at the age of 96.
- Irvin was the first Black football player from St. Augustine, Florida, to play in the NFL.
- He played one season for the Philadelphia Eagles in 1953.
- He also played college basketball and led his team in a notable tournament game.
- Irvin was inducted into the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame in 1988 and Florida A&M University’s Hall of Fame in 1995.
- After his NFL career, Irvin served in the Army during the Korean War.
- He pursued a master’s degree and worked as a teacher in Palm Beach County.
