Jimmy Patton

James Russell Patton (born September 29, 1933 – December 22, 1972) was an American football defensive back in the National Football League for the New York Giants. He was a five-time Pro Bowler. Patton played college football at the University of Mississippi and was drafted in the eighth round of the 1955 NFL Draft. He was recently included as one of two Defensive Backs on the 50th Anniversary All-Time SEC Conference Football Team. The Professional Football Researchers Association named Patton to the PRFA Hall of Very Good Class of 2010
On December 22, 1972, Patton was killed in an automobile accident near Villa Rica, Georgia. He was driving alone in his car when he was struck by an oncoming vehicle while attempted to pass another car. He was driving to Virginia to see his sister who was dying of cancer as reported by his sons.