Franco Harris was born in Fort Dix, New Jersey to Cad Harris and Gina Parenti Harris. His father served in World War II and was stationed in Italy during the war.
Advertisement
His mother, Gina Parenti Harris, was a native Italian and became a war bride who moved with her husband when he returned to the United States after the end of the war.
Image Credit: Pittsburgh Post Gazette
Harris also has a brother named Pete Harris, a collegiate All-American player. He died on August 15, 2006, of a heart attack at the age of 49.
Advertisement
Harris was chosen for 9 consecutive Pro Bowls and was All-Pro in 1977. Harris rushed for more than 1,000 yards in eight seasons, breaking a record set by Jim Brown.
In 1984, he received the Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement. In 1999, he was ranked number 83 on The Sporting News’ list of 100 Greatest Football players.
Leave a Reply