Walter Payton’s Death – Cause and Date

The football player Walter Payton died at the age of 45. Here is all you want to know, and more!

Biography - A Short Wiki

Running back who broke NFL records for the most rushing yards, carries, and touchdowns during his 13-year career with the Chicago Bears.

He married Connie Payton in 1976. His son Jarrett played running back at the University of Miami. Walter also had a daughter named Brittney.

How did Walter Payton die?

Payton died from bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma). In February 1999, he revealed that he had a rare liver disease (primary sclerosing cholangitis) which may have been the cause leading to bile duct cancer.

His illness led him to become an advocate for organ transplants. During his final months, he appeared in many commercials to encourage others to donate organs. This caused donations in Illinois to skyrocket and helped to spread awareness of the need for organ donations.

Quotes

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“Most important thought, if you love someone, tell him or her, for you never know what tomorrow may have in store.” (Walter Payton)

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“You have to take things one day at a time.” (Walter Payton)

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“God’s been very good to me. I’m truly blessed.” (Walter Payton)

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“Never die easy. Why run out of bounds and die easy? Make that linebacker pay. It carries into all facets of your life. It’s okay to lose, to die, but don’t die without trying, without giving it your best.” (Walter Payton)

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“I try to run on the hottest days, at the hottest time, because that’s the most difficult time. And sometimes I worry about drying out, and dying.” (Walter Payton)