The family of Hall of Fame running back and legendary broadcaster Frank Gifford announced Sunday afternoon that he has passed away at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Kathie Lee Gifford, their two children and three other children from his first marriage. 

The Giffords released a statement upon announcing the death of the family's patriarch: 

"It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and friend, Frank Gifford. Frank died suddenly this beautiful Sunday morning of natural causes at his Connecticut home. We rejoice in the extraordinary life he was privileged to live, and we feel grateful and blessed to have been loved by such an amazing human being. We ask that our privacy be respected at this difficult time and we thank you for your prayers."

Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame back in 1977, Frank Gifford is considered one of the best running backs of the pre-modern era. He earned eight trips to the Pro Bowl in a 13-year career—all with the New York Giants—that saw him put up over 9,000 total yards and 77 touchdowns. A member of the NFL's All 1950's Team, Gifford was known best for his extreme athleticism during a time in football that such didn't exist at the level it does today. 

Gifford's biggest claim to fame off the field came when he replaced the legendary Keith Jackson in the booth for Monday Night Football games back in 1971—joining Don Meredith and Howard Cosell in the booth. It's a gig Gifford would hold until his retirement in 1997.