By Lydia Jane Allison
Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris has died, the team announced Sunday morning. He was 70 years old.
D’Alessandris was hospitalized earlier in August due to a sudden and severe illness. He had underwent surgery earlier in the summer and experienced complications from it.
D’Alessandris was with Baltimore since 2017 and spending 45 years coaching football. Prior to Baltimore, in the NFL, he coached offensive lines for the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and San Diego Chargers.
The Pennsylvania native also coached in college and the Canadian Football League.
Statement from the Baltimore Ravens:
“Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of Coach Joe D’Alessandris’ passing early this morning.
“‘Joe D.’ lived a life of boundless faith, love, devotion and inspiration. As a husband, father, grandfather, friend and coach, Joe made every individual he encountered truly feel like they were the most important person in the world.
“Anyone fortunate enough to have spent time with Joe was forever touched by his genuine and uplifting nature. He had the amazingly rare ability to connect with people in a way that deepened respect, empathy and kindness – further spreading those important virtues into the everyday life of the world.
“‘Force multiplier’ is a football term sometimes used to describe an individual who makes everyone around him better. As a coach, he was certainly that. But far more importantly, it’s also a proper characterization of Joe D’Alessandris as a person – someone who undoubtedly created a legacy of love and impact that will live on forever.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Joe’s family – particularly his three incredible daughters – during this somber time. Now reunited with his late and precious wife, Toni, we know they are smiling down from above and blessing everyone they dearly love.”
Statement from Head Coach John Harbaugh:
“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith. He made us all better. He was our reader at team mass, and he was loved by all here. He was a great coach and a good man – the kind of person who you are honored to have as a friend. He raised three incredible, beautiful daughters, and he was a most loving husband. His grandkids also adored him. I admired him, loved him and am going to miss him, because ‘Joe D.’ was a joy. Toni has him back now. May God bless ‘Joe D.’ forever.”
Statement from Executive Vice President & General Manager Eric DeCosta:
“Today is a sad day for the Baltimore Ravens. ‘Joe D.’ was a rock, a great coach and a better person. He cared about the team deeply, exhibiting a relentless passion to excel while displaying genuine love for his players. I especially treasure my conversations with him, talking about football and life. I will always remember standing back with Joe on the practice field and watching him up close with his players. Coach was the consummate teacher and friend, and I will miss him deeply. Our thoughts and prayers go to Joe’s daughters and family and everyone touched by Joe’s remarkable spirit.”
Statement from President Sashi Brown:
“‘Joe D.’ was beloved throughout our entire organization and the greater NFL community. He was a passionate and devoted football coach who left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Above all, he was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather who always prioritized his faith and family.
“True to character, ‘Joe D.’ was a fighter to the very end. Our hearts are broken for his daughters, Kelly, Emily and Anna, and his five grandchildren. We take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his late wife, Toni, whom he loved dearly.
“His legacy, light and spirit will remain with all of us. Our prayers are with the entire D’Alessandris family during this very difficult time.”
STATEMENTS COURTESY BALTIMORE RAVENS COMMUNICATIONS
