Joy Murrath, also known as Joy Piccolo, was the beloved wife of Brian Piccolo who was an American professional football player.
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After Brian’s untimely passing, Joy got remarried to Rick O’Connell, the son of a respected Chicago police officer. Despite her connection to two prominent figures, Joy leads a private life.
In this article, we will explore Joy’s early life, her relationship with Brian, her marital life, her professional career, her net worth, and more.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Joy Murrath |
| Also Known as | Joy Piccolo |
| Famous as | Brian Piccolo’s Wife |
| Date of Birth | 1943 |
| Place of Birth | United States |
| Age at the Time of Death | 81 as of 2024 |
| Current Residence | Delavan, Wisconsin |
| Spouses | Brian Piccolo, Rick O’Connell |
| Children | Lori Piccolo Bruno, Traci Piccolo Dolby, Kristi Piccolo |
| Parents | N/A |
| Sibling | Carol Murrath |
| Gender | Female |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Joy Murrath’s Early Life
Joy Murrath was born in 1943 in the United States of America. She gained prominence primarily as the wife of American professional football player Brian Piccolo.
Joy has maintained a remarkably private persona, keeping her personal details hidden from the public eye.
Therefore, information regarding her exact birthdate, family background, and early life is hard to find in the public domain.
Her early upbringing and educational journey remain unavailable topics in the media, adding to the mystery surrounding her life.
Joy Murrath’s Age, Nationality, And Ethnicity
Joy Murrath, born in 1943 in the United States of America, is 81 years old as of 2024. She holds American nationality and belongs to the Caucasian ethnicity.
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Joy Murrath’s First Husband: Brian Piccolo
Louis Brian Piccolo was born on October 31, 1943, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. He made a significant mark as an American professional football player, playing as a halfback for the Chicago Bears in the NFL.
Tragically, Piccolo passed away at the age of 26 on June 16, 1970. Despite his brief time on Earth, Piccolo’s incredible impact lasts.
His deep friendship with teammate Gale Sayers, portrayed in the film “Brian’s Song,” left an unforgettable legacy in the hearts of many.
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Joy Murrath And Brian Piccolo’s Marriage
Brian Piccolo and Joy Murrath shared a beautiful love story that began in high school, where they were high school sweethearts. Joy was a cheerleader at Central Catholic.
Brian engaged Joy with a sparkling diamond ring. The couple got married on December 26, 1964, in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by their cherished family and loved ones.
Their marriage was blessed with the arrival of three precious daughters: Lori, Traci, and Kristi.
Brian Piccolo’s Tragic Death
Brian Piccolo tragically passed away on June 16, 1970, at the young age of 26, due to embryonal cell carcinoma, an aggressive form of testicular cancer.
His diagnosis came when the disease had already spread to his chest cavity, marking the end of his promising career and life.
However, Piccolo’s legacy exceeds the football field. His courageous battle against cancer and the deep friendship he shared with teammate Gale Sayers has been portrayed in the film “Brian’s Song.”
Even five decades later, Piccolo’s memory remains cherished and honored by fans, teammates, and the broader football community.
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Joy Murrath Remarried To Rick O’Connell
Joy Murrath found love once more three years after the loss of her first husband, Brian Piccolo. Her second husband, Rick O’Connell, belongs to a law enforcement background as the son of a Chicago police officer.
Details regarding Rick’s profession remain unavailable. However, the couple resides in Delavan, Wisconsin, building a life together in the peaceful surroundings of the Midwest.
Joy Murrath’s Career
Joy Piccolo is the president of the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Foundation.
She has been dedicated to this foundation and its cause since its establishment following the tragic passing of her husband, Brian Piccolo.
With a mission to support cancer research, the foundation has thrived under Joy’s leadership, raising over $5 million to date.
Alongside her, Rick O’Connell tirelessly contributes to the foundation’s efforts, showing their commitment to advancing cancer research and supporting those affected by the disease.
Joy Murrath’s Net Worth
Joy Piccolo’s net worth remains unknown due to her private nature, as she has not disclosed details about her career, salary, or assets.
On the other hand, her late husband Brian Piccolo’s net worth at the time of his passing was estimated at $50,000.
