Franco Harris, the legendary  Pittsburgh Steelers running back passed away on December 20, 2022. He was 72 at the time. 

It was reported that he died in his sleep at his residence. His death was attributed to natural causes. Harris is survived by his wife Dana Dokmanovich and his son, Dok.

Read Also: Who was Franco Harris?

His death shocked the NFL fans, and tributes poured in, requesting prayers for him. Former president Barack Obama also tweeted about the deceased star, saying that he used to watch him on the field, and even had the chance to meet the NFL star, calling him an “extraordinary man on and off the field.”

Harris was born to an American medic Cad Harris and an Italian woman Gina Parenti Harris. The two met in Parenti’s home country and later moved to the United States. 

Also Read | Franco Harris: cause of death, wife Dana Dokmanovich, net worth, Pittsburgh Steelers stats and more

Who is Gina Parenti Harris?

Gina Parenti Harris, the mother of deceased NFL star Franco Harris, was born on 25 Jul 1927. An Italian Native, she became a war bride after marrying Cad Harris, who was stationed in Italy during World War 1. The two wed in 1945 and moved to America. 

The couple had nine children through their marriage: Daniela, Mario, Franco, Marisa, Alvara, Luana, Piero, Giuseppe, and Michele. 

Also Read | Franco Harris’ last Instagram post shows him at supermarket with a jar of snacks

Parenti discussed her experience of adjusting to the new life. “I came here when I was 19. Dumb. Dumb. I couldn’t speak any English,” Parenti said, as reported in a New York Times article, “even when I go on television now, people make fun of my accent.”

In the same article, Franco also revealed that his mother would not allow him to play football. “She didn’t understand the game. That’s why she didn’t want me to play,” said Franco. “But now she chases my little brothers outside to play football.”

Franco’s brother Pete Harris, was also a footballer, who passed away due to a heart attack in 2009. 

Parenti died on 15 Jul 2014 at the age of 86 in Mount Holly, Burlington County, New Jersey, USA. She is buried at the Mount Holly Cemetery.