Ray Jarvis, a distinguished wide receiver from Norfolk State University and former NFL player, passed away on August 3 in Waukesha, Wisconsin at the age of 77. Jarvis made significant contributions to football, particularly with the Detroit Lions where he led the team in receiving in 1975 and 1976. His remarkable performance in 1976 earned him the Lions’ offensive MVP title, and he led the NFC with an impressive 26.1 yards per catch.
Born on February 2, 1949, in Chesapeake, Virginia, Jarvis became one of Norfolk State’s most celebrated receivers during his collegiate career from 1967 to 1970. The Spartans were ascending as a powerhouse among Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Jarvis stood out as one of the top deep threats nationwide. He amassed 2,211 receiving yards, ranking fourth in school history, and his 30.8 yards per reception in 1970 remains a single-season record for Norfolk State.
Jarvis was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fifth round of the 1971 NFL Draft, picked 111th overall. He appeared in six games for the Falcons over two seasons before joining the Buffalo Bills, where he played 12 games in 1973, recording a single catch. His career flourished with the Detroit Lions after joining them at the close of their 1974 training camp. Jarvis played five seasons in Detroit (1974–78) before completing his professional journey with the New England Patriots in 1979.
In 2023, Norfolk State recognized Jarvis for his outstanding achievements by inducting him into the university’s Athletics Hall of Fame, honoring his record-setting college career and his accomplishments during nine seasons in the NFL. He retired with 104 receptions, 1,832 yards, and 11 touchdowns.
After retiring, Jarvis was among the players whose families pursued compensation through the NFL’s concussion settlement, illustrating the difficulties faced by older retirees. Ray Jarvis was placed in hospice since last year due to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia symptoms, as shared by his wife, Ahdea. He leaves behind his wife, daughters Rahdea and Shani, and five siblings.
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