Ray Jarvis, a legendary wide receiver for Norfolk State who later played in the NFL for nine seasons, passed away on August 3 in Waukesha, Wisconsin, at the age of 77.
College Career at Norfolk State
Jarvis was born on February 2, 1949, in Chesapeake, Virginia. During his four years from 1967 to 1970 at Norfolk State, he excelled as a receiver. His achievements helped the Spartans become a leading program among Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Jarvis concluded his college career with 2,211 receiving yards, ranking fourth in school history. His 30.8 yards per catch in the 1970 season remains a school record.
Professional Football Journey
The Atlanta Falcons picked Jarvis in the fifth round, 111th overall, of the 1971 NFL Draft. He played six games with the Falcons in the following two seasons before joining the Buffalo Bills, where he participated in 12 games in 1973, recording one reception.
Jarvis truly thrived with the Detroit Lions, joining them at the end of their 1974 training camp. Over five seasons, from 1974 to 1978, Jarvis became a key player. In 1975, he led the Lions in receiving with 29 receptions for 501 yards and four touchdowns. In 1976, he achieved 39 receptions for 822 yards and five touchdowns. Jarvis was honored as the Lions’ offensive MVP in 1976, with an NFC-leading 26.1 yards per catch average.
He completed his NFL career with the New England Patriots in 1979, retiring with 104 catches, 1,832 yards, and 11 touchdowns.
Legacy and Recognition
In 2023, Norfolk State inducted Jarvis into the university’s Athletics Hall of Fame. The honor recognized both his remarkable performance with the Spartans and his nine-year NFL career.
Challenges in Retirement
In his later years, Jarvis encountered health challenges typical for some retired NFL players. His family pursued compensation through the NFL’s concussion settlement process, underscoring the difficulties retirees faced navigating these claims. According to a social media post by his wife, Ahdea, Jarvis had been in hospice due to symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Jarvis leaves behind his wife Ahdea, daughters Rahdea and Shani, and five siblings.
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