Longtime NFL Referee Bill Leavy Dead At 76

Former NFL referee Bill Leavy — who helped officiate Super Bowl XXXIV and Super Bowl XL — died this week … league exec Walt Anderson confirmed on Wednesday.

He was 76 years previous.

Anderson didn’t reveal a reason behind demise … however informed Football Zebras in an announcement that Leavy “was an outstanding official and an even better man.”

“Always kind and thoughtful,” mentioned Anderson, the NFL’s senior vice chairman of officiating, “Bill was instrumental in mentoring countless young officials throughout his career.”

Anderson added, “His integrity earned him respect at every step of his football journey and the entire officiating community mourns his loss.”

Leavy started officiating NFL video games within the 1995 season — and labored six years earlier than he was assigned to assist ref the Titans vs. Rams SB XXXIV. Leavy was simply yards away from Mike Jones‘ game-winning deal with on Kevin Dyson.

Leavy was later promoted to ref in 2001 … and went on to work his second Super Bowl, XL, in 2006. He lamented his efficiency within the recreation, saying he regretted booting a few of his calls within the Steelers’ win over the Seahawks.

Leavy labored his ultimate recreation for the NFL in 2014 — a playoff matchup between the Colts and Broncos. He went on to work for the league in retirement, serving to within the hiring course of of recent officers.

In 2019, Leavy received the Art McNally Award — arguably the best honor for NFL officers.

“Saddened to hear of the loss of Bill Leavy,” former NFL ref Gene Steratore tweeted Wednesday. “Bill was an excellent referee and just a joy to be around. Life is just too short. He was a great mentor and friend.”