Doug Flutie's parents die on same day

— -- Doug Flutie's parents died within an hour of each other Wednesday after being married for 56 years, the former NFL quarterback said on Facebook. 

Flutie said that his father, Dick, had been ill and died of a heart attack in the hospital. Less than an hour later, Dick Flutie's wife, Joan, suddenly had a heart attack and also died. 

"They say you can die of a broken heart and I believe it," Flutie said. "I would like to honor my parents for all that they did throughout my and my brothers' and sister's lives. My parents were always there for their children, from the days my Dad coached us as kids and my Mom would work the concession stands, through to this morning."

"The most important part of their 56 years of marriage was providing opportunities to their children," Flutie continued. "They were incredible parents and Grandparents and my family and I will miss them both. On behalf of me and the entire Flutie family, I would like to thank you all for your well wishes and prayers during this difficult time."

Flutie spent 12 seasons in the NFL with the New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers and Chicago Bears. He is best known for his Hail Mary pass against Miami while playing for Boston College in 1984. Boston College tweeted its condolences Wednesday afternoon, saying, "Our hearts go out to the Flutie family, all of whom are in our prayers."