Dead football fans remain loyal
This one came in from three correspondents–it’s a must-share and indicates the state of the culture:
PITTSBURGH (AP) — James Henry Smith was a zealous Pittsburgh Steelers fan in life, and even death could not keep him from his favourite spot; in a recliner in front of a television showing his beloved team in action.
Smith, 55, of Pittsburgh, died of prostate cancer Thursday. Because his death wasn’t unexpected, his family was able to plan for an unusal viewing Tuesday night.
The Samuel E. Coston Funeral Home erected a small stage in a viewing room and arranged furniture on it much as it was in Smith’s home on game day Sundays.
Smith’s body was on the recliner, his feet crossed and a remote in his hand. He wore black and gold silk pajamas, slippers and a robe. A pack of cigarettes and a beer were at his side, while a high-definition television played a continuous loop of Steeler highlights.
“I couldn’t stop crying after looking at the Steeler blanket in his lap,” said his sister, MaryAnn Nails, 58. “He loved football and nobody did (anything) until the game went off.
“It was just like he was at home.”
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Mary Ann was certainly not as tough as nails.