Former Southern great Isiah Robertson passes away
SWAC.org
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southwestern Athletic Conference mourns the tragic loss of former Southern University football standout and SWAC Hall of Fame inductee Isiah “Butch” Robertson. Robertson, 69, died in an automobile accident Thursday evening near Mabank, Texas.
A cornerstone on the Southern Jaguars defense, the New Orleans, La. native earned All-America honors in his final collegiate season (1970). Robertson was then drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the first round of the 1971 NFL draft. He remained with the team through 1978 before playing for the Buffalo Bills from 1979 to 1982. He was named his first-team All-Pro in 1973 and 1976 and was chosen for the Pro Bowl in his rookie 1971 season, as well as 1973-77. The Rams had success when Robertson was on the team, winning six straight NFC West titles from 1973 to 1978.
"We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Isiah 'Butch' Robertson," said Roman Banks, Southern University athletic director. "'Butch' embodied the spirit of Southern University and represented this institution with class and dignity everywhere he went. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Robertson family during this difficult time."
Following his playing days, Robertson founded the House of Isiah, a drug and substance addiction treatment center.
Robertson was inducted into the A.W. Mumford Stadium Ring of Honor in 2017, and is also a member of the Black College Football Hall of Fame, Southern University Hall of Fame and Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.
Robertson will be laid to rest on Dec. 14 at the Calvary Cathedral International, located at 1701 Oakhurst Scenic Dr. in Fort Worth, Texas. Visitation will occur from 11 a.m. to noon, with funeral services to begin at noon.
The SWAC offers its condolences to Robertson’s family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.