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The Enduring Legacy Of Harrison Wilson III: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Russell Wilson's Late Father

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Harrison Wilson III remains one of the most significant, yet often unsung, figures in modern NFL history, not for his own brief professional football career, but for the profound and lasting impact he had on his son, future Super Bowl champion quarterback Russell Wilson. As of the current date, December 22, 2025, his legacy continues to be a central part of Russell Wilson's public narrative, a source of inspiration and a reminder of the values that shaped one of the league's most successful players. His story is one of dual-threat excellence—on the field and in the courtroom—a testament to balancing an intense passion for sports with a commitment to academic and professional success. The narrative of Harrison Wilson III is far richer than just "Russell Wilson's dad." He was a standout athlete whose own NFL dreams were cut short, a highly respected lawyer, and a devoted family man who instilled the "Why not me?" mentality in his son. His life, which ended too soon in 2010 after a long battle with diabetes, offers powerful lessons in perseverance, academic rigor, and the importance of a strong moral compass.

Harrison Wilson III: A Complete Biography and Profile

Harrison Benjamin Wilson III was a man of exceptional intellect and athletic prowess, whose life's work laid the foundation for his son's success. His story is a powerful example of an individual who excelled across multiple demanding fields.

  • Full Name: Harrison Benjamin Wilson III
  • Known As: Harry B. Wilson III
  • Date of Birth: Exact date is generally kept private, but he was a member of the Dartmouth Class of 1977.
  • Date of Death: June 9, 2010 (Age 55)
  • Cause of Death: Complications from diabetes.
  • Wife: Tammy Wilson (Tamara Wilson)
  • Children: Russell Wilson (NFL Quarterback), Harry Wilson IV, and Anna Wilson (Professional Basketball Player).
  • Alma Mater (Undergraduate): Dartmouth College (Class of 1977)
  • Alma Mater (Law): University of Virginia School of Law (UVA Law)
  • Athletic Career: Standout football (wide receiver) and baseball player at Dartmouth College; attended training camp with the San Diego Chargers.
  • Professional Career: Accomplished lawyer and managing partner at a law firm.

The Dartmouth College Football Star Who Chose the Courtroom

Long before his son became a household name in the NFL, Harrison Wilson III was a celebrated athlete in his own right, earning the nickname "Harry B." at Dartmouth College. He was a multi-sport standout, excelling in both football and baseball for the Ivy League institution. His talent on the gridiron, specifically as a wide receiver, was undeniable, earning him significant recognition in the mid-1970s.

Following his graduation from Dartmouth in 1977, Wilson pursued his ultimate goal: the professional ranks. He earned a tryout with the San Diego Chargers as a wide receiver. Although his dream of a long NFL career did not materialize, the experience was a pivotal moment in his life, teaching him about the cutthroat nature of professional sports and the value of having a strong backup plan.

Instead of dwelling on the setback, Harrison Wilson III immediately pivoted to his academic pursuits. He enrolled in the prestigious University of Virginia School of Law, where he earned his law degree. This decision showcased his incredible discipline and intellectual commitment, proving he was a true scholar-athlete. He went on to have a successful career as an attorney, eventually becoming a managing partner at a law firm.

This dual career path—Ivy League athlete and accomplished lawyer—is the core of his enduring legacy. It provided the blueprint for his son, Russell, who famously faced questions about his height and size in the NFL draft, and who was encouraged by his father to pursue both baseball and football at the highest level while prioritizing his education.

The "Why Not You?" Mentality: Harrison's Core Lesson

The most powerful and frequently cited aspect of Harrison Wilson III's influence is the simple, yet profound, question he constantly posed to his son: "Why not you?" This phrase became Russell Wilson's personal mantra and the title of his foundation, the "Why Not You Foundation." This philosophy was not just about football; it was a life lesson about challenging perceived limitations, having confidence, and striving for excellence in every endeavor.

Harrison Wilson III taught his children that success was not a matter of luck or circumstance, but of preparation and belief. He encouraged Russell to play both professional baseball and football, trusting his son's ability to excel in two demanding sports, a decision that mirrored Harrison's own multi-talented background in football and baseball at Dartmouth.

Even as he battled the debilitating effects of diabetes in the later years of his life, Harrison continued to be his son's most ardent supporter and mentor. He passed away just before Russell Wilson was drafted into the NFL, but not before seeing his son's potential fully realized. Russell often speaks of his father's presence and guidance in every game he plays, viewing his career as a continuation of his father's dream and a tribute to his memory.

Harrison Wilson III's Enduring Impact on Russell Wilson's Career

The spirit of Harrison Wilson III is continually present in Russell Wilson's professional life, extending far beyond the field. Russell Wilson's commitment to philanthropy, his calm leadership style, and his relentless work ethic are all traceable to the values instilled by his father.

His father's struggle with and eventual death from diabetes also inspired Russell's deep involvement in health-related charitable causes, including his regular visits to Seattle Children's Hospital during his tenure with the Seahawks. This dedication to giving back is a direct reflection of the character and integrity Harrison Wilson III demonstrated throughout his life as a professional lawyer and community member.

The story of Harrison Wilson III is a powerful reminder that behind every successful athlete is often a foundational figure who provided the necessary guidance, discipline, and unwavering belief. His legacy is not measured by the statistics of his brief football career, but by the extraordinary life and career of the man he raised. He provided the ultimate example of how to live a life of purpose, balancing ambition with a strong moral and intellectual foundation.

The Enduring Legacy of Harrison Wilson III: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Russell Wilson's Late Father
harrison wilson iii
harrison wilson iii

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