Former Cleveland Browns running back Benjamin Gay was killed in a car accident in Colorado at age 44.
On Saturday, Nirfino reported that the Houston native tragically passed away on July 29.
An obituary for the former NFL player also went live on Saturday, writing: ‘Benjamin passed into the care of our Lord.’
‘Benjamin was a stalwart Christian and a proud attendee to Platte Valley Baptist Church,’ Rowanoak Mortuary & Crematory wrote of Gay. ‘He loved to spend time with his family, work on cars, and ensured that the yards of his family members were well cared for. Benjamin enjoyed staying busy, and was always happy when he had something to do.
‘Benjamin is survived by his spouse, Margarita Gay, his son, Damian Ortega, his daughters, Julie Ortega and Brianna Morales, his brother, Rodley Johnson, his sisters, Kathy Gay, Benika Gay, Stacey Butler, Lola Smith, and many nieces and nephews.’
Former Cleveland Browns running back, Benjamin Gay, passed away from a car crash at 44
Gay signed with the Browns in 2001 and made his mark in a win against the Baltimore Ravens
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Gay was a high school legend in Houston after his career at Spring High School. After initially signing to play at Baylor, Gay attended Garden City Community College in Kansas.
Nonetheless, he found his way to the NFL and signed with the Browns in 2001, right before training camp. While his time in the league did not last long, Gay authored a story that would live in Browns lore.
Gay was the third-string running back and was primarily a special teams player through the first eight games of the season. However, he made himself a fan favorite in the ninth game against a Baltimore Ravens team that was fresh off a Super Bowl win.
In a 27-17 win over the Ravens, Gay carried 18 times for 56 yards and a seven-yard touchdown to give Cleveland the lead in the second quarter.
Gay scored a seven-yard touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens in his Browns debut
The Houston, Texas native got cut by the Browns after just one season with the team
His stat line for that game ended up being career highs and he finished the season with 51 carries, 172 yards, and a touchdown. Gay also averaged 22.3 yards on 22 kickoff returns.
The Browns waived Gay in April 2002 before he signed with the Indianapolis Colts. However, Indiana would release him before training camp.
Besides his short NFL tenure, Gay played for Edmonton in the Canadian Football League. Gay worked as a welder after hanging up his cleats.
Funeral arrangements for Gay are being handled by Rowanoak Mortuary and Crematory in Fort Morgan, Colorado.