Cowboys Grieve Loss Of AT&T Art Ambassador Phil Whitfield
The Dallas Cowboys community is in a state of mourning after the passing of Phil Whitfield, a longtime staple at AT&T Stadium and close friend of the Jones family, on Wednesday.
Whitfield, who would've turned 63 on Saturday, had worked with the Cowboys since 1993. He began his career as a security guard at Texas Stadium and eventually AT&T Stadium, but his role grew more and more over the years. In one of his most prominent roles, Whitfield helped announce The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleading squad each year on the show "Dallas Cowboys Cheerleading: Making the Team."
His most notable endeavor, however, may have been his role as an Art Ambassador for the Cowboys Art Collection at AT&T Stadium. Whitfield was initially hesitant about joining the program, founded in 2009 by Jerry Jones' wife Gene Jones, but grew a greater appreciation for art once he accepted the position.
"So I said 'Art? Me do art?'" Whitfield said in a 2014 interview with NBC 5. "I thought I was the most unlikely person that could do art, but I've come to realize that it ended up being a blessing in disguise."
In his 30 years with the Cowboys, Whitfield became very close with the Jones family. Gene Jones even referred to him as "part of our family" in the aforementioned NBC 5 story. After Whitfield's passing this week, Gene Jones released a heartfelt statement through the Cowboys organization.
“The loss of Phil Whitfield leaves us all heartbroken," Gene Jones wrote. "We have such wonderful memories with him, just as so many others do. Few people have generated such widespread goodwill and respect like Phil did over the years. He was an amazing ambassador for the Cowboys and a great friend and docent for our art program and the purpose of connecting with children and inspiring them to enjoy art. We will miss him greatly.”
Growing up in the Dallas area, Whitfield grew up following the Cowboys very closely. The opportunity to work with the Cowboys for 30 years was a dream come true, and he left an unforgettable impact on the organization.
"Phil's legacy extends far beyond his keyring, transcending the boundaries of the stadium," Whitfield's obituary reads. "It resides within the memories of countless individuals who were touched by his kindness, generosity, and the simple act of opening doors for them. He reminded us of the importance of the unsung heroes, whose contributions might not always make headlines, yet they play an integral role in making moments magical for others."
As of Saturday, no cause has been given for Whitfield's death.
You can find Jonathan Alfano on Twitter @JonAlfano_News
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