Ace Parker dead at 101

Clarence “Ace” Parker, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 1972, died this morning at the age of 101. He starred in the National Football League as a quarterback for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1937-1941. Parker’s career was interrupted by his service in World War II but he returned to the NFL in 1945 with the Boston Yanks. He finished his pro football career with one final season with the New York Yankees of the rival All-America Football Conference in 1946.

“Our thoughts go out to Ace’s family and friends,” commented Steve Perry, the Hall of Fame’s president/executive director. “On behalf of all of the Hall of Famers, the Board, and staff, we reflect on a full life lived and will forever remember the football legacy created by Ace Parker.”

Parker was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 1940. That season he led the Dodgers to their finest season to date as he ranked among the best in nearly every statistical category. He threw 10 touchdown passes, rushed for 306 yards and two scores, added two touchdown receptions, tallied 19 PATS, averaged 38 yards per punt, and his six interceptions on defense tied him for the league lead.

Parker was the first and only member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame to live to 100 years of age.

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See our special feature on Parker when he turned 100>>>