Former New England Patriots Star Was 51

Former New England Patriots security Matt Stevens has handed away at age 51.

In line with an obituary and funeral service announcement on Walker’s Funeral Dwelling in Chapel Hill, NC., Stevens died on March 20. “It’s with nice unhappiness that we announce the passing of Matthew Stevens age 51, beloved son and father,” the obituary stated.

“He leaves his mom, Jean Thillberg, his father Vincent Stevens, his brother Mark Stevens and his youngsters Cassidie and Colin Stevens of Avon by the Sea New Jersey, in addition to aunts, uncles and cousins,” per the obituary.

Stevens had been dwelling in Durham after retiring from the NFL in 2003 and loved aggressive capturing, his household stated.

No reason behind loss of life was made public.

Stevens was on the Patriots staff that went on to upset the Los Angeles Rams and win the Tremendous Bowl in 2001. He additionally performed for the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles.

Family and friends spoke out in feedback on the obituary’s web site. A former teammate of Stevens’ at Appalachian State College named James “J.Okay” Reaves stated he “at all times appreciated his presence on the sphere” and known as Stevens “fingers down the quickest man on the staff.”

“He went on to do what so many people dreamed of, taking part in on the skilled stage,” Reaves continued. “His journey, like many, had its highs and lows, however by means of all of it, he remained pushed…I hope they carry ahead his spirit, his energy and his love for the sport.”

One other commenter, Philip Elmore, stated he used to work as a cameraman for the staff when Stevens was on the roster. “Good reminiscences from the highway journeys with Matt using on the defensive bus. Good occasions on the sidelines,” Elmore wrote.

“Man, that is unusual, gone method too quickly. He was a great man and a really centered, defensive participant, even in follow.”

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In 2007, Stevens tragically turned paralyzed from the waist down following a motorbike accident. In line with the Houston Texans, Stevens hit a patch of gravel that threw him right into a pace restrict signal, which broke in half from the affect of Stevens’ physique. He later underwent seven months of restoration.

“I’ve a lady who loves me and I’ve two youngsters,” he advised the outlet on the time. “The rationale I subconsciously made it by means of the accident once I was in a coma is because of my youngsters.”

In 2011, Stevens was reportedly one among a dozen sufferers chosen for the scientific trials of ReWalk, a wearable machine that helped him regain a few of his mobility.

A memorial service for Stevens will probably be held on Friday, March 28 at St. Thomas Moore Catholic Church in Chapel Hill.