Publish date: 2024-01-04

Walt Garrison, a prominent rusher for the Oklahoma State Cowboys, secured a Super Bowl victory as a fullback with the Dallas Cowboys, and pursued a career as a rodeo cowboy, has passed away at the age of 79. He was widely recognized as an authentic cowboy who actively participated in professional rodeos during the offseason, endorsed chewing tobacco, and gained a reputation as a captivating storyteller. Additionally, he established the Walt Garrison Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and received induction into various halls of fame.

An All-Around Athlete

Born on July 23, 1944, in Denton, Texas, Walt Garrison initially enrolled at Oklahoma State University as a defensive linebacker. However, his coach, Phil Cutchin, had a different vision for him. Cutchin transitioned Garrison to the running back position, which was unfamiliar to him, but he quickly excelled. He led the Big Eight Conference in rushing during his junior year and secured the second position in his senior year. He was recognized as a College All-Star Game player in this role and ultimately gained admittance into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and the Oklahoma State Athletics Hall of Honor.

Upon being drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1966, he returned to his home state, but during his initial two seasons, he mainly handled kickoff returns. In 1969, he made the switch to fullback and emerged as a top-tier talent. Garrison played a pivotal role in leading the team to a Super Bowl championship during the 1971-72 season and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1972. Nevertheless, a series of injuries sustained both on and off the field, owing to Garrison’s rugged lifestyle, led to his retirement in 1974.

A Genuine Cowboy

Walt Garrison’s cowboy spirit extended beyond the football field to the rodeo arena. During the offseason, he participated in steer wrestling and team roping events, often sporting his football helmet for protection. He once remarked that rodeo brought him more enjoyment than football, expressing his preference for being a “world champion bulldogger” above all else. He also made appearances in commercials for Skoal chewing tobacco, promoting it as a source of genuine tobacco pleasure.

Garrison was equally celebrated for his wit and storytelling prowess. In 1988, he co-authored a biography with John Tullius titled “Once a Cowboy.” Additionally, he established the Walt Garrison Multiple Sclerosis Foundation to raise funds and awareness for the disease that affected his former teammate, Don Meredith. He was a prominent figure on the Cowboys’ 25th Anniversary Team and gained membership in both the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.

A Legacy of Resilience and Compassion

Walt Garrison passed away on October 11, 2023, in Weatherford, Texas. He is survived by his wife, Gail, his son, Lance, his daughter, Leigh Ann, and his grandchildren. He is remembered by his admirers and acquaintances as a resilient and versatile athlete who played with fervor and integrity. He is also commemorated for his kindness and generosity in helping others and bringing laughter to people’s lives. He epitomized the essence of a true cowboy.

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