Franco Harris, 72, of Sewickley, passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, December 20, 2022.

Franco was born on March 7, 1950, at Fort Dix, N.J., to the late Cad and Gina (Parenti) Harris.

After graduating from Rancocas Valley Regional High School in Mount Holly, N.J., he played fullback at Penn State under Joe Paterno. Franco graduated with a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted him with the 13th pick in the first round of the 1972 N.F.L. draft. His selection helped catalyze the evolution from the NFL’s worst team to its most successful. Franco’s achievements on the field were impressive – he was a four-time Super Bowl champion, Super Bowl IX MVP, 1972 Rookie of the Year, 1976 NFL Man of the Year and a Pro Football Hall of Famer. His greatest achievements, however, were made off of the playing field. His steadfast dedication to helping others throughout his life serve as an inspiration to all and a testament to his commitment to kindness, charity, decency, and humility.

In his life after professional football Franco’s passion for business manifested in a number of successful ventures including Super Bakery, the Leader in Bakery Nutrition®. His charitable endeavors and community involvement are unmatched, highlighted by his chairmanship of the Pittsburgh Promise.

He is survived by his wife Dana and son Dok.

On Tuesday, December 27, 2022, the public is welcome to pay their final respects to Franco at ACRISURE Stadium PNC Champions Club at Gate A from 1:00PM until 5:00PM.

Stadium parking lots will open at 11:00Am.

For those who would like to commemorate Franco, in lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to The Pittsburgh Promise at www.pittsburghpromise.org or the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor Foundation at www.franciscanfoundation.org

TATALOVICH FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 2205 McMinn St., Aliquippa, PA, 15001, is honored to handle arrangements.