Russ Francis, who starred for the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers, was killed Sunday in a plane crash in Lake Placid, New York.
Also killed was Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Senior Vice President Richard McSpadden.
Francis grew up wanting to fly, and he spent his life in the sky. He was 70.
“Russ Francis and I became close friends right away,” North Elba Town Supervisor Derek Doty told the News. “His energy was infectious and was so excited to be an integral part of our community. A terrible tragedy. I will delay any further comments until after consoling his family.”
We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of former New England Patriots tight end Russ Francis. Our condolences are extended to Francis’ family and friends. pic.twitter.com/sgrrPZ5Ui4
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 2, 2023
Francis’ brother posted a message on Facebook.
“My older brother Russ Francis was just killed in an airplane crash in Lake Placid, New York,” Ed Franciswrote. “Needless to say, my family and I are completely flattened. Flying was my brother’s lifelong passion, and perhaps a fitting way for him to go. God speed to you my big brother!!”
Francis played 14 seasons in the NFL and was named to the Pro Bowl three times. He spent the first six seasons of his career in New England after being drafted out of Oregon in the first round in 1975.
Francis had 196 receptions for 2,996 yards and 28 touchdowns in his first six seasons.
He retired after the 1981 season but returned to football with the San Francisco 49ers for six seasons.
He returned to the Patriots in 1988, playing in 12 games.
Overall, Francis appeared in 162 regular-season games and had 393 receptions, 5,262 yards, and 40 touchdowns.
A statement from Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft on the passing of Russ Francis: https://t.co/4wzT7L1nmQ pic.twitter.com/GUl7sfrbwH
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 2, 2023
