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Washington Redskins superfan Chief Zee, dies at 75

Posted at 8:15 PM, Jul 19, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-19 21:33:41-04

WASHINGTON DC. – The man known as the Washington Redskins biggest fan, Zema Williams, better known as Chief Zee, has died, according to the team.

The 75-year-old passed away in his sleep Monday night, according to NBC 4 in Washington DC. The cause of death is unknown at this time.

Most Redskins fans are probably familiar with Chief Zee, who was considered the Redskins unofficial team mascot and was voted biggest Redskins fan by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

The Washington Redskins released a statement on Williams passing.

“The Washington Redskins will always appreciate Zema Williams’ unique passion and dedication to our football team and his fellow Washington Redskins’ fans.”

Redskins player Chris Baker expressed condolences on Twitter saying “Your presence will be missed.”

Williams attended every Redskins home game since 1978, except for four he missed due to funerals, The Washington Post reported in 2013.

A vigil for Williams is being held Tuesday night at Fed-Ex Field, the Redskins stadium in Landover, Maryland.

Just months ago, Redskins fans helped raise over $10,000 when Chief Zee was being evicted from his apartment.