SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Longtime San Francisco 49ers coach and executive Bill McPherson died Tuesday at the age of 88, the team announced.
McPherson spent 20 seasons as a defensive assistant for the 49ers from 1979-98, helping the franchise win five Super Bowl titles. He was hired in coach Bill Walsh's first season with the team and was defensive coordinator from 1989-93 under coach George Seifert.
McPherson later worked as the team's director of pro personnel from 1999-2002 and a personnel consultant from 2003-05.
McPherson also coached one season with the Philadelphia Eagles and in college for his alma mater Santa Clara and UCLA.
McPherson is survived by his wife, Elsie, five children, 11 grandchildren and one great grandchild.