More On Chief Jay Strongbow's Passing, Superstars React
WWE Hall of Famer Joseph Luke Scarpa, a.k.a. "Chief" Jay Strongbow, passed away yesterday at the age of 83. The Post And Courier reports that Scarpa's health never improved after being hospitalized last year after suffering a fall in his home.
"The Chief" started his career in 1947 in the NWA, and remained in the business before retiring in 1985. Scarpa went on to become a road agent for WWE and worked in the company's front office. He made scattered television appearances after his retirement, including mentoring Tatanka in 1994, who would induct him in the WWE Hall of Fame that year.
Many superstars have commented on Scarpa's passing on Twitter, here are some of their comments:
Jim Ross: "Sad to hear of the passing this morning of WWE HOF'er Chief Jay Strongbow, a beloved member of WWE family. 'RIP Chief.'"
Honky Tonk Man: "We send our condolences to the family of Chief Jay Strongbow. HTM Team"
Bret Hart: "Chief Jay Strongbow helped me as much, if not more, than anyone else in my career. It truly saddens me 2 see the wrestling world lose 1 of its great contributors. He was the star of most of my locker room drawings...but he will always be Chief to all the boys who knew him. A big loss!"
Smith Hart: "My condolences to the family of Chief Jay Strongbow. I'm sure Davey & Owen have already welcomed him to heaven with a fun rib."
Diana Hart Smith: "Truly saddened 2 hear of Chief Jay Strongbow's passing.He understood the wrestling.Losing him is like losing one of the last of the mohicans"
Shawn Michaels: "I'm sorry to hear about the passing of Chief Jay Strongbow. Chief was one of a kind. My prayers go out to him & his family."
"Rowdy" Roddy Piper: "LOVED YOU CHIEF JAY STRONGBOW. My best to the family!"
Jeff Jarrett: "R I P Chief Jay Strongbow..."
Ted Dibiase: "WE lost a great wrestler and a good friend today, Chief Jay Strongbow. His help and advise over the years was priceless. Rest in peace Chief"
Matt Hardy: "Saddened to hear about the passing of Chief Jay Strongbow. Chief was a major factor in helping Jeff & I get our break at WWE. RIP Chief.."
Low-Ki: "Rest in peace to the legendary Chief Jay Strongbow. #Warcry #WarDance #Chop"
Source: The Post And Courier