A Century of Devotion: 102-Year-Old Eagles Fan Still Bleeding Green

This story is sure to warm your heart — and maybe even make you cheer “Fly, Eagles, Fly!” a little louder.

Eloise Brown, a 102-year-old lifelong Philadelphian, has been rooting for the Eagles since the 1960s — but she’s been alive longer than the team itself. Born in 1922, a full 11 years before the Eagles franchise was founded in 1933, Brown has seen it all: 17 division titles, three NFL championships, one Super Bowl victory, and countless unforgettable moments (The Philadelphia Inquirer).

“Plenty of times, they frustrate me,” Brown said with a laugh, clutching a football-shaped stress ball as she watched her team from her living room. “But I’m gonna be happy Sunday,” she added, still brimming with optimism that only a true Eagles fan could have (Philly Inquirer).

Her journey as a fan began in the 1960s, when televised games became a family ritual. Surrounded by children, nieces, and nephews, Brown would watch the green-and-white battle their rivals from her home in North Philadelphia. What started as casual viewing soon turned into a family tradition spanning generations. Today, her sprawling family — which includes 27 grandchildren, more than 50 great-grandchildren, and over 20 great-great-grandchildren — says she’s never missed a game (CBS News).

To mark her milestone 102nd birthday, Brown finally got to celebrate in style. She attended her fifth live Eagles game, cheering from the stands as her team took down their longtime rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. Dressed head to toe in team colors — a green jersey, matching earrings, and her signature Eagles hat — she embodied the city’s passionate fan spirit (People Magazine).

The team noticed. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Eagles president Don Smolenski personally arranged for Brown to receive a custom jersey with her name and age — “Brown 102” — stitched on the back. Players also stopped by to sign it, honoring her as one of the franchise’s most loyal fans. “It made her whole day,” said her granddaughter, adding that Brown “talked about that game for weeks.”

Brown’s story has since captured hearts across Philadelphia and beyond. Local outlets like NBC10 Philadelphia and NPR have highlighted her century-long fandom as a shining example of resilience, joy, and the deep community ties sports can foster.

“She’s proof that love for this team runs deep in the city’s DNA,” said her great-grandson, who often watches games with her. “Every touchdown, every heartbreak — she feels it all.”

As the Eagles prepare to face the Washington Commanders this Sunday, Brown is already ready — snacks on the table, green blanket across her lap, and unwavering faith in her team.

“I’ve been cheering since before most of them were born,” she said with a grin. “And I’ll keep on cheering as long as I can.”

Here’s to Eloise Brown — a living legend whose century of loyalty reminds us that true fandom never fades. Whether the Eagles win or lose, her spirit proves that love for the game, and for the city of Philadelphia, is timeless.