Hall Of Famer Gene Upshaw dies!

NFL Union President and Raider Hall Of Fame member Eugene Upshaw has joined the ancestors after recently being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. #63 is the only player to play in three different Superbowl's in the 1960's, 70's and 80's.

The perennial all pro lineman received his Bachelors of Science from Texas A and I university now Texas A and M at Kingville. He is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He did his graduate work at Lincoln University.

He was a tenacious defender and will certainly be remembered for being a Raider great! The Silver and Black will miss you. He leaves behind a loving wife and two children.

Since 1983 he has represented the players union, serving as a rep and then as the president. Recently the rank and file and retirees have been highly critical of Upshaw believing that he was too cozy with management and that he had not maintained a proper adverserial relationship necessary to represent his union fairly. I too, agreed with this view.

In reality though NFL players receive more than 50% of the revenues. NFL retirees received more revenues in retirement than their salaries during their playing days. But with rising salaries of current players and rising medical costs and decreasing health benefits retirees have a legitimate beef in asking that their medical packages be increased not only from the NFL but a fund paid for by the current crop of highly paid professionals.

Gene Upshaw has been under assault for the last few years. In response, The next Union Pres may find what most critics find when they actually are in the drivers seat. It ain't easy I just make it look easy.

Last, to all men but especially Black men, Gene Upshaw was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on August 19th, he passed on August 21st. He woke up not feeling well, his breathing was labored and his wife made him go to the doctor. How long had he had the cancer, how long had he suffered and how long did he just walk it off?

Men are notorious for not going to the doctor and taking care of themselves. Goooooooo to the doctor! It's not for you it's for the ones who love you.

Until the last day sleep well Gene. God bless your family!

BE Prayerful! BE Mindful! BE Careful!

Jaycee