SAN FRANCISCO, April 25 (UPI) -- Early San Francisco 49ers great Joe Perry died Monday of complications due to dementia at the age of 84, the team said.
Perry, a fullback who played 14 of his 16 professional seasons for San Francisco from 1948-1960 and in 1963, was nicknamed "The Jet" for his exceptional speed and remains the team's all-time leader in rushing yards (7,344) and rushing touchdowns (50).
Perry was named to the Pro Bowl three times (1952-54), was twice designated a first-team all-pro (1953-54) and was selected by United Press International as the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 1954.
He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969 and his No. 34 jersey was retired by the 49ers in 1971.
"I was deeply saddened to hear of Joe Perry's passing earlier today," 49ers owner and Co-Chairman John York said. "He was a dear friend to my family and me and to the entire 49ers organization. He was also an integral part of our rich history."
The Stephens, Ark., native is survived by his wife Donna, four children, a stepdaughter, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
