Harry Carson

Was very sadden to learn that a true “Lion” of the game passed away yesterday. David “Deacon” Jones was the epitome of what defense was in the National Football League and the game of football “back in the day” when football was really football. Much will be written by others about his on the field exploits, I will miss yet always remember his booming voice whenever he was present.

When I was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame new inductees attended a luncheon named after Green Bay Packers great Ray Nitschke with other Hall of Fame members. At the luncheon the new inductees could not speak, instead the seasoned members had the floor and shared with everyone in the room what the game of football and being a Hall of Fame member meant to them. I remember clearly how Deacon took the floor spoke with such passion as if he was in the confines of the locker room or in the huddle. He spoke of his love for the game but also of his love for his teammates and how he would do it all again in a heartbeat. From the tone of his voice I knew Deacon Jones the proud Lion loved the game but he also loved leaving a legacy for others like Reggie White or a Lawrence Taylor to strive to emulate on the football field.

I was proud to know that Deacon played at my alma mater South Carolina State where we played the same position, defensive end. I use to tease him that we probably wore the same number but it wasn’t until I wore the number that the school chose to retire the jersey. My teasing never got under his skin but he always had a good comeback to shut me up! I cherished every moment I spent with him and was very much honored to know him. Most important I am honored to be able to call David “Deacon” Jones my friend.

There is one thing my wife and I know for certain, wherever “Deacon” is right now we are certain that he is having a good time!

When I was young I remember hearing my parents, relatives and older friends of my family say to one another “Happy New Year!” That was followed up with how thankful they felt to live to see the beginning of a brand new year. I didn’t really think about at the time but I do now. When I review my 2012, life came to an end for many people I loved. I lost my brother, my father in law, one of my Giant teammates, two of my coaches from our Super Bowl Championship team, several life long friends and acquaintances. In recent years I receive a list of the many former NFL Players we lost during the course of the year. When I review that list and then reflect on my personal list of people I know who no longer are among the living, now I get it. Like those who proceeded me who saw those in their lives pass away sometimes too prematurely, I feel thankful and blessed to be able to see and welcome 2013. As I enter another year and see that another year nor even tomorrow is guaranteed I know that the best gift I can give myself is to live my life to the fullest!

I wish everyone a very Happy New Year! I encourage everyone to live your life this year with no regrets!!!