NFL Legend Russ Francis Tragically Loses Life in Plane Crash: Patriots and 49ers Mourn. Exclusive Details Inside.”
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of former NFL tight end and Super Bowl champion, Russ Francis. The 70-year-old, known for his time with the New England Patriots and the San Francisco 49ers, tragically lost his life in a plane crash at Lake Placid Airport in upstate New York. The Patriots confirmed the news, expressing their deepest condolences to Francis’ family and friends.
Russ Francis, who had recently acquired the Lake Placid Airways scenic tour business, was aboard a Cessna 177 Cardinal plane with Richard McSpadden, the senior president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). The plane faced an emergency shortly after takeoff, attempting to return to the airport but unfortunately didn’t make it back to the runway. Both occupants, Francis and McSpadden, lost their lives in the tragic incident.
Francis, a first-round draft pick in 1975, had a remarkable career in the NFL, playing for the Patriots and later the 49ers. He was an essential part of the San Francisco team that clinched Super Bowl XIX. Throughout his career, he earned three Pro Bowl selections. He leaves behind his wife, Judy, as well as his son, Grant, and daughter, Annabel. During this trying moment, we are thinking of his family.