Though I am reminded of Rocky Blier and Mean Joe Greene visiting Martin Short on his hospital deathbed, the following is a little more over the top (link courtesy Jon Solomon). From the Associated Press.

James Henry Smith was a zealous Pittsburgh Steelers fan in life, and even death could not keep him from his favorite spot: in a recliner, in front of a TV showing his beloved team in action.

Smith, 55, of Pittsburgh, died of prostate cancer Thursday. Because his death wasn™t unexpected, his family was able to plan for an unusual viewing Tuesday night.

The Samuel E. Coston Funeral Home erected a small stage in a viewing room, and arranged furniture on it much as it was in Smith™s home on game day Sundays.

Smith™s body was on the recliner, his feet crossed and a remote in his hand. He wore black and gold silk pajamas, slippers and a robe. A pack of cigarettes and a beer were at his side, while a high-definition TV played a continuous loop of Steelers highlights.

œI couldn™t stop crying after looking at the Steeler blanket in his lap, said his sister, MaryAnn Nails, 58. œHe loved football and nobody did (anything) until the game went off. It was just like he was at home.