Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris, who was hospitalized earlier this month due to an acute illness, died early Sunday morning, the team announced. He was 70 years old.
“‘Joe D’ lived a life of boundless faith, love, devotion and inspiration. As a husband, father, grandfather, friend and coach, Joe made every individual he encountered truly feel like they were the most important person in the world,” the team said in a statement. “Anyone fortunate enough to have spent time with Joe was forever touched by his genuine and uplifting nature. He had the amazingly rare ability to connect with people in a way that deepened respect, empathy and kindness — further spreading those important virtues into the everyday life of the world.
“‘Force multiplier’ is a football term sometimes used to describe an individual who makes everyone around him better. As a coach, he was certainly that. But far more importantly, it’s also a proper characterization of Joe D’Alessandris as a person — someone who undoubtedly created a legacy of love and impact that will live on forever. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Joe’s family — particularly his three incredible daughters — during this somber time. Now reunited with his late and precious wife, Toni, we know they are smiling down from above and blessing everyone they dearly love.”
