James Nathaniel Brown, better known as Jim Brown, died at his Los Angeles home yesterday, May 18, 2023.  He was 87 years old.  He is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in the history of American football.

Brown was born on February 17, 1936, in St. Simons Island, Georgia, and had a remarkable career both on and off the field. He played college football at Syracuse University, where he achieved tremendous success, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1956. In 1957, he was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the NFL and immediately made an impact. Throughout his nine-year professional career, Brown dominated the game with his exceptional speed, power, and agility, earning him numerous accolades. He set multiple records, including rushing for 12,312 yards, and scoring 106 touchdowns and added 2,499 yards and 20 touchdowns as a receiver.  Brown retired from football at the peak of his career in 1966 to pursue acting and activism. He became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and continued to use his platform to advocate for social justice and equality.

Off the field, Jim Brown made a name for himself as an actor, starring in notable films such as “The Dirty Dozen” and “100 Rifles.” Despite his success in Hollywood, he never strayed far from his commitment to activism. Throughout his life, Brown remained an influential voice in the fight for racial equality and social change. He founded the Amer-I-Can program, which aimed to empower disadvantaged individuals and guide them toward a better future. Brown’s legacy extended far beyond his athletic achievements, as he continued to inspire generations of athletes and activists with his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on society, until his passing.  Rest in peace, Jim Brown.