He Gave it His Best Shot – Willie Fordham (1927-2010)

The baseball world lost a great ambassador to the game as Negro League legend Willie Fordham passed away yesterday (8/22/2010)

Fordham, was a member of the 1952 Eastern League Harrisburg Senators and the Negro League Harrisburg Giants from 1953-1955, an accomplished author, and motivational speaker. He had the tools to make it in the Major Leagues and almost did (try out with the Dodgers in 1952) but his color held him back. I recently asked Willie how he wanted people to remember his playing days, he said “I played with and against the best players to play the game” and he followed that up by saying “I ALWAYS gave it my best shot”.

My condolences go out to Willie’s family and friends.

He inspired countless people over the years to find the best within themselves and to never give up.

Willie’s legacy will live on through his books, family, friends and those he inspired over the years.

Negro League Remembrance night will not be the same without you.

Services will be held on Saturday 8/28/2010 at 11 AM in Harrisburg (I will provide more details tomorrow).

EDIT: Services will take place Saturday at the Camp Curtin Memorial Mitchell United Methodist Church, 2221 N. Sixth St., Harrisburg. Viewing will be from 9 to 11 a.m., with the service to follow immediately afterward.

Book Review: I Gave It My Best Shot By Willie Fordham

Harrisburg Living Legacy: Willie Fordham

Mode Weekly: Willie Fordham

Penn Live: Susquehanna Township native, former Negro League standout Willie Fordham dies at 83

York Daily Record: Willie Fordham, 83, remembered for Negro League career

Examiner.com: Willie Fordham Negro League Pitcher Dies at 83 (1927-2010)