Former New York Jets quarterback, Bill Demory, passed away earlier this month at the age of 74. His obituary states that he succumbed to prostate cancer and Parkinson’s disease, dying peacefully on February 14. Born in Iowa and raised in Arizona, Demory had a brief yet notable career as a quarterback in the NFL during the 1970s, followed by a successful tenure in academia.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Early Life and Education |
| 2) Professional Football Career |
| 3) Transition to Academia |
| 4) Legacy and Remembrance |
| 5) Personal Life |
Early Life and Education
Bill Demory was born in Iowa, where he spent his early years before relocating with his family to Arizona. Growing up, he attended high school in Phoenix, where he began to cultivate his skills as an athlete, specifically in football. After high school, he enrolled at the University of Arizona, playing as the team’s starting quarterback for three seasons. His collegiate career was marked by impressive stats, including 3,268 passing yards and 28 touchdowns over the course of 27 games. However, the team did not achieve a winning record during his tenure, which may have influenced his progression into professional football.
Professional Football Career
Demory joined the New York Jets in 1973. During his rookie season, he participated in six games, starting in three of them. He recorded a total of 159 passing yards, two touchdown passes, and eight interceptions that year. Demory played alongside notable quarterbacks, including Joe Namath and Al Woodall, while the team concluded the season with a disappointing 4-10 record. The following year, the Jets improved their performance to a 7-7 record with Namath at the helm, yet Demory did not get the opportunity to showcase his skills on the field. His role as one of the few quarterbacks from Arizona to start in the NFL before Nick Foles was highlighted, sharing the accolade with Eddie Wilson and Fred Enke.
Transition to Academia
After his stint in professional football, Demory transitioned into academia where he pursued a career in education. He served as an economics professor at Arizona Western College and Central Arizona College from 1999 until 2016. Additionally, he took on a role as an adjunct faculty member at Mesa Community College, providing his expertise in economics and inspiring students until 2024. His influence in education demonstrated his commitment to shaping future generations, building a legacy far beyond his football career.
Legacy and Remembrance
Demory’s legacy is preserved not just through his statistics as a player or his academic contributions, but within the memories of those who knew and loved him. His obituary noted the significant impact he made both as a professional athlete and an educator. In the world of sports, he is remembered as a player who achieved a rare feat of transitioning from the college ranks to the NFL. While his football career may have been brief, it remains a point of pride for the University of Arizona and its community.
Personal Life
In his personal life, Demory is survived by a loving family, including his wife, two sons, two daughters, and 14 grandchildren, along with two stepchildren and his brother. His family remains a testament to the deep, lasting relationships he fostered throughout his life, both in and out of athletics. The support and love he received from them were likely a source of strength during his battles with health issues in his later years. The community remembers him not only for his athletic prowess but also for the person he was off the field, compassionate and dedicated to those around him.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bill Demory, former New York Jets quarterback, died at 74 after battling cancer and Parkinson’s. |
| 2 | Demory had a successful collegiate career at the University of Arizona with significant passing statistics. |
| 3 | He joined the Jets in 1973, had a brief playing career, and was part of a quarterback roster that included NFL legends. |
| 4 | After football, Demory became a respected economics professor influencing students for over two decades. |
| 5 | Demory left a lasting legacy through his family, friends, and the communities he served. |
Summary
The life of Bill Demory is a tribute to perseverance and passion. From his roots in Iowa to his influential role as a college professor, Demory’s journey reflects the impact an athlete can have beyond their sporting achievements. While he faced formidable health challenges, his contributions to football and education will be remembered fondly by family and the communities he served. His legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations to pursue their dreams both on and off the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What teams did Bill Demory play for in the NFL?
Bill Demory played for the New York Jets during his brief career in the NFL.
Question: What was Bill Demory’s impact on collegiate football?
Demory was one of the few quarterbacks from the University of Arizona to start games in the NFL before Nick Foles, marking a significant milestone for the program.
Question: How did Demory contribute to education after his football career?
Demory became an economics professor and adjunct instructor, teaching at multiple colleges in Arizona and significantly influencing his students’ lives.
