Former 49ers wide receiver Freddie Solomon passed away Monday at the age of 59. He was remembered by teammates for his contributions to a pair of Super Bowl teams and the legacy of greatness he left behind.
Its certainly a sad day here. Just trying to get my hands around it a little bit because Ive never had anyone, other than family members, Freddie Solomons the closest person to me whos passed away. Ill miss him terribly. He was a great friend. He taught me how to be an NFL player. He was very unselfish with teaching me all the things I needed to know to play in the NFL. My heart goes out to his wife, Dee, and his mother-in-law, Sugar, and my thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.
-- WR Dwight Clark
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Freddie Solomon today. My heart goes out to Dee, his family, the 49ers football family, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's office and football fans everywhere. Freddie and I have been friends for 35 years, and he was one of the most gentle and best men I have ever met in my life. Scores of generations will remember Freddie through their children and the youth he's helped over all these decades. I have never met a man who cared so much about the human race, and there will never be another Freddie.
-- Eddie DeBartolo Jr.
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"Freddie was a great player, but he was a better human being! His stand for helping the less fortunate and the voice he shared for making people do what is right and good was truly remarkable. This will always inspire me and others to achieve greatness for others and to be humble in our journey. God bless his family and his lovely wife."
-- S Ronnie Lott
"Freddie Solomon was a dear friend and a great teammate. There was no one who gave more on and off the field than Freddie. The kindness he demonstrated was inspirational to all that knew him, and a joy to be around. The warmth of his smile will be forever embedded in my mind and heart. Jennifer and I have been blessed to have him in our lives. We will miss you Freddie!"
-- QB Joe Montana
"Freddie was very influential to me and my career, and taught me about work ethic and professionalism. He inspired me to go out there every day and emulate him."
-- WR Jerry Rice
-- Courtesy San Francisco 49ers media services