Dead Fan Placed In Favorite Recliner To Watch Pittsburgh Steelers

Strange, but also dumb:

James Henry Smith was a zealous Pittsburgh Steelers fan in life, and even death could not keep him from his favorite spot: in a recliner, in front of a TV showing his beloved team in action.

Smith, 55, of Pittsburgh, died of prostate cancer Thursday. Because his death wasn't unexpected, his family was able to plan for an unusual viewing Tuesday night.

The Samuel E. Coston Funeral Home erected a small stage in a viewing room, and arranged furniture on it much as it was in Smith's home on game day Sundays.

Smith's body was on the recliner, his feet crossed and a remote in his hand. He wore black and gold silk pajamas, slippers and a robe. A pack of cigarettes and a beer were at his side, while a high-definition TV played a continuous loop of Steelers highlights.

The viewing was concluded by Suprise Guest Griever Mean Joe Greene showing up to throw a nasty, stinky sweaty jersey in the deceased's face.

"It was a lovely moment," the funeral director said. "We'd hoped to get Franco Harris to stiff-arm the body as he ran through the mortuary -- you know, just give the corpse a nice forearm-shiver -- but we're happy enough with the cameo we got."

Thanks to Slublog.

posted by Ace at 02:44 PM

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