Greetings, Lion fans, and another Lion has answered the Roll Call. Jimmy Talley, #54 here, the center on the 1972 NAIA National Champions, passed away June 15th. Best described as a real “hard-nosed” player by his teammates, he was exactly the kind of tough and determined player desired by Head Coach Ernest Hawkins and offensive line coach Boley Crawford. During his time in Commerce, Talley served as student President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was a proud member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.

After his career with the Lions, Talley spent a brief period as a NFL free agent with the San Francisco 49ers. He then became an accountant in the DFW Metroplex. A private service will be held by the family at a later date.

“When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder……When The Roll is Called Up Yonder, I’ll be there.”

Rest easy, Jimmy. Your fellow Lions have the watch.