How Did Russell Wilson’s Father Harrison Wilson Die? All About Steelers QB’s Parents & Upbringing

We all have someone who inspires us on a whole new level. Russell Wilson‘s biggest inspirations have always been his parents, Harrison and Tammy Wilson. The former Seahawks star, who played two seasons with the Broncos (2022 and 2023) and now plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers, says he owes his success to them. 

But did you know the athletic genes in Wilson’s family go way back? His grandfather played football and basketball, while his dad was into baseball and football. Looks like being a part of sports is a family tradition.

Who was Russell’s father Harrison?

The Steelers QB has always been close to his father and speaks highly of him. Sadly, he lost his dad far too soon. Harrison Benjamin Wilson III was a lawyer, but that came later in life. He first made his mark in football and baseball. A Dartmouth College graduate, Harrison was a receiver and split end on the college football team. He also played shortstop and third base on the baseball team, earning a reputation as a standout defensive player. As the second of four siblings to attend the Ivy League school, he was quite an impressive figure in his own right.

Now known as the Los Angeles Chargers, Harrison played in the preseason with San Diego Chargers in 1980. However, destiny had other plans. After playing the season’s final two games, he suffered a separated shoulder and had to take time off to heal. During that time, Harrison enrolled at the University of Virginia School of Law. After graduating, he began his career as a lawyer. Maybe the law was his true calling after all. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 55 on June 9, 2010, because of diabetes-related complications.

Wilson Sr. made a profound impact on his son’s life. Remembering his father, Russell Wilson once shared, “My dad, when I was young, he always inspired me.” Losing his dad must have been tough for the star QB. But his mother was there to support him during the loss.

Who is Tammy Wilson?

Russell Wilson’s mom, Tammy Wilson, has been his rock since day one. A nurse by profession, her first job was as a registered nurse in Cincinnati. Over the years, she worked in different roles at various hospitals, always staying dedicated to her career and family.

Tammy and Harrison Wilson had three kids together, two sons and a daughter. Russell is the middle child. His older brother, Harry, is an entrepreneur, and his younger sister, Anna, played basketball at Stanford University. Tammy has always been a supportive mom, showing up for all the important moments in her kids’ lives.

Tammy is known for her selflessness. When COVID hit, she used her nursing background to help organize extra patient space to ease the pressure on overburdened hospitals. Russell Wilson has often spoken about her contributions during those challenging times. No surprise that the QB has taken charitable initiatives, like the Why Not You Foundation and the Why Not You Academy. From his athleticism to his empathy and commitment to giving back, it’s clear he’s inherited it all from his parents.

Back in 2019, on Mother’s Day, Wilson surprised Tammy with a house. She must be such a proud mom. “All these years you have never asked me for anything… the only thing you ever wanted is for me to LOVE”, Russell wrote in a video posted on YouTube. Besides supporting and loving him, Tammy also gives Wilson parenting advice. Well, if he’s taking the lessons seriously, his kids are bound for a path full of love and support!