Legendary USC Trojans tailback Charles White Passed Away At The Age Of 64

 

Legendary USC Trojans tailback Charles White, a two-time All-American and Heisman Trophy winner, passed away on Saturday at the age of 64.

White had been battling kidney disease for some time and passed away in a hospice near his home in Moreno Valley, California. 

A standout player for the Trojans from 1976 to 1979, White made an instant impact as a freshman and was twice named first team All-American during his time with USC. He rushed for 6,245 yards and 56 touchdowns during his college career, the most ever at that point by a running back in the Pac-12 Conference. His record has since been broken.

In 1979, White was awarded college football’s most prestigious honor when he was given the Heisman Trophy as well as several other awards for excellence including the Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award and UPI Player of the Year Award. After finishing second in the balloting his junior year, White won with overwhelming support his senior season — collecting 85 percent of all possible points cast by voters across America.

Following graduation, White went on to be selected 24th overall by the Cleveland Browns in 1980 NFL draft. During an eight year professional career which included stops with Los Angeles Rams (1981–1988) and San Francisco 49ers (1989), he amassed over 3,700 rushing yards while adding 30 touchdowns on ground as well as seven more scores through receiving work. 

USC Football Coach Clay Helton issued a statement via Twitter: “The @USCFootball family lost a true legend today with the passing of Charles White," Helton wrote. "We will forever keep Charles’ legacy alive! Rest In Peace." 

White is survived by his wife Millicent Mack and three children Markisha Hopkinson, Tevin Sommersby and Imani Daniels. A memorial service is scheduled to take place at Heritage Park in Moreno Valley next month.