Larry Benjamin, an 83-year-old Detroit Lions fan from Saginaw who captured hearts by dyeing his hair Honolulu blue in solidarity with his team during their NFL playoff run, has died, according to a social media post from his son. Benjamin, who was in hospice care for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), passed away in his sleep on Sunday morning, as stated by Jeff Benjamin, his son. Jeff's tribute to his father's sporting passion was shared on X.
To everyone who supported my Dad’s blue haired pursuit of a @Lions Super Bowl, know that he is now in peace. He passed away in his sleep earlier this morning. @amonra_stbrown thanks for all the love! pic.twitter.com/ne4aXCTRCe
— Jeff Benjamin (@BenjiWriter) March 10, 2024
"To everyone who supported my Dad’s blue hair pursuit of the Lions Super Bowl, know that he is now in peace," wrote Jeff. "He passed away in his sleep earlier this morning. @amonra_stbrown Thanks for all the love!" ABC12 reported on the overwhelming support received by Benjamin from Lions enthusiasts and the wider community.
The inspiration behind Benjamin's vibrant hair color was Amon-Ra St. Brown, the Lions wide receiver who himself sported blue hair after defeating the Los Angeles Rams. Larry Benjamin's story quickly went viral, capturing the attention of the team and its fans, as reported by CBS Detroit. In a heartfelt gesture, St. Brown responded to the news of Benjamin's passing, simply stating, "RIP Mr. Benjamin."
Benjamin's blue-dyed dedication even earned him a signed jersey from St. Brown, with an inscription that echoed the intimate bond between team and fan: "To: Larry The Man. Keep being a beast. Best fans in the world. One pride!" Recognizing Benjamin's fervor, Chris Spielman, a Detroit Lions legend and special assistant to the owner, made a personal phone call thanking him for his lifelong support, as detailed by CBS Detroit
