Former Tulsa And Miami Dolphins WR Howard Twilley Dies At 81, Leaving Behind His Wife Of 56 Years, Julie Twilley

Howard Twilley is survived by his wife, three children, and many grandchildren. He will be missed by his family and the broader football community.

Howard Twilley, a legendary wide receiver for the Tulsa Golden Hurricane and a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Miami Dolphins, passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 81.

Twilley, known for his record-setting college career and contributions to the Dolphins’ historic undefeated 1972 season, leaves behind his wife, Julie, and their three children.

His death has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the football community, reflecting the profound impact he had on the sport and those who knew him.

Howard Twilley was born on December 25, 1943, in Houston, Texas.

He marked himself as a standout athlete at the University of Tulsa, where he set numerous NCAA records and finished as the runner-up for the 1965 Heisman Trophy.

His professional career with the Miami Dolphins cemented his legacy, as he played a key role in the team’s back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973.

RIP Howard Twilley🙏🕯️

Original Miami Dolphin

The dependable #Dolphins receiver played 11 seasons in Miami from the franchise's inception in 1966.

He scored the #GoFins' first touchdown in Super Bowl VII.

Two-time Super Bowl champion and member of the '72 Perfect Season team pic.twitter.com/0tECf5trqd

— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) February 7, 2025

His family confirmed Twilley’s death, though no cause of death was disclosed.

Twilley’s passing marks the end of an era for football fans who admired his skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

Howard And Julie Were Married For 56 Years And Had Three Children

At the center of Howard Twilley’s personal life was his wife, Julie, whom he married in 1968.

Julie, a former University of Tulsa band queen, was often described by Howard as his “luckiest catch.”

The couple was married for 56 years and raised three children together: Michael, Blaine, and Mark.

While not much is known about Julie, it was evident that she meant a lot to Howard and was a constant source of strength throughout his football career and beyond.

In a 1992 interview, Howard said about his wife,

Their three children—Michael, Blaine, and Mark—each carved out their own paths, with Michael working at a ski lodge in Colorado, Blaine attending Metro Christian Academy, and Mark following in his father’s footsteps as a student-athlete.

The Twilleys also welcomed Howard’s mother into their home in 1990.

Howard and Julie also had grandchildren, but their details are unknown. One of the grandchildren made a Reddit post about thier grandfather’s storied career.

My grandfather, Howard Twilley. I have this up on my wall ad these are from his time on the NFL 1971-1973. I have a jersey and helmet (the one shown in pic 3 aswell) he has two super bowl rings and was on the team during the undefeated season. Enjoy 🙂
byu/CT_Orrin inmiamidolphins

Howard Had An Illustrious Collegiate And Professional Football Career

Howard Twilley’s football career began at the University of Tulsa, where he set NCAA records for receptions (134) and receiving yards (1,779) in a single season.

His performance earned him a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 1965, finishing second to USC’s Mike Garrett.

Twilley’s success at Tulsa paved the way for his NFL career, where he was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1966.

Great ThrowbackThursday picture. Miami Dolphins 1st practice in Boca Raton in 1966. #81 Howard Twilley of Tulsa U. one of only 2 players here on the 1972 undefeated Dolphins team that won Super Bowl VII. Boca is Boyd Co.’s new home during #pandemic. #siteselection #econdev pic.twitter.com/Qyk9KmHteh

— The Boyd Company, Inc. (@TheBoydCompany) December 4, 2020

Twilley’s time with the Dolphins was marked by historic achievements, including catching a 28-yard touchdown pass in Super Bowl VII, which helped secure the team’s perfect 17-0 season.

He played 11 seasons in the NFL, amassing over 3,000 receiving yards and 23 touchdowns before retiring in 1976.

The #Dolphins judiciously utilized air attack nets the first score of Super Bowl VII, 50 years ago today.

Bob Griese first hits Paul Warfield down the left sideline, then locates Howard Twilley for the touchdown.

The clip features the song "Time Trial" by composer Mike Vickers. pic.twitter.com/3PVrCjhN36

— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) January 15, 2023

After his football career, Twilley transitioned into business, owning and operating 28 The Athlete’s Foot stores across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas.

He also considered a run for Congress in 1994 but ultimately supported fellow NFL player Steve Largent’s campaign.

Howard’s Legacy Will Live On, Both On And Off The Field

Howard Twilley’s impact on football and his community cannot be overstated.

He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992 and the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1995.

The University of Tulsa retired his jersey, No. 81, as a gesture to his enduring legacy.

We had the opportunity to catch up with some @TulsaFootball legends & Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame members yesterday!

Jerry Rhome ⚡️ Howard Twilley ⚡️ Drew Pearson ⚡️ Steve Largent#ReignCane 👑🌀 #ForOurCity pic.twitter.com/jfSGz1JLak

— Tulsa Golden Hurricane (@TulsaHurricane) July 18, 2018

Beyond his athletic achievements, Twilley was remembered for his humility and dedication to his family.

His wife, Julie, and their children continue to honor his memory, ensuring that his contributions to the sport and his community are never forgotten.

Additional Information

• Twilley finished his NFL career with 212 receptions for 3,064 yards and 23 touchdowns.
• Over his three seasons at Tulsa, he amassed 261 receptions for 3,334 yards and scored 32 touchdowns.
• In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into Tulsa‘s Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984.