Greg McCrary Dies: Former Atlanta Falcon Dead At 61; How Did He Die?

Former Atlanta Falcons tight end Greg McCrary passed away Tuesday, at the age of 61.

He had been in the hospital on life support since falling sick last week, and he suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday morning. Family members started gathering at the hospital and making arrangements for the funeral.

"We appreciate the sympathy and prayers for the family -- that goes a long way," said brother Phil McCrary, who is Athletics Coordinator for DeKalb County Schools. "He is in a better place now."

McCrary played with the Falcons for three seasons from 1975, and later moved to the San Diego Chargers and the Washington Redskins. He appeared in 74 games and had 13 starts. As a tight end, he finished with 22 receptions for 228 yards and four touchdowns.

After his NFL career, he became a high school football coach in the Atlanta area.

McCrary is survived by his son Jonathon, who will be a freshman quarterback this fall at Vanderbilt University.