Farewell to a Legend: Cleveland's Beloved Sports Announcer Jim Donovan Passes Away at 68

Jim Donovan, a popular Cleveland sports figure for over four decades, passed away recently at the age of 68. Beloved by Cleveland Browns fans as the team's radio play-by-play announcer, Donovan stepped away from his post earlier this year due to a long battle with cancer. He retired from his broadcast career in May, with his final broadcast as a sports anchor airing in June. Donovan had been calling Cleveland’s games since the team's expansion in 1999. Born in Boston and affectionately known as "Jimmy, " Donovan was revered for his passion, professionalism, and charming sense of humor. Fans admired his meticulous preparation for game broadcasts, spending countless hours ensuring details were accurate. Despite his illness, Donovan penned a heartfelt letter to Browns fans, expressing his gratitude for their support. "Cheryl, Meghan, and I thank you for all the love, support, and prayers during my rough patches, " he wrote. "It's like having a huge family around us. And that's what makes the Cleveland Browns so special. " Donovan’s journey in Cleveland began in 1985, where he covered the city's professional sports teams. His extensive career included national network assignments and involvement with NBC's coverage at the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics. Recently, he was inducted into the Browns' Legends Club and the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame, although illness prevented him from attending the ceremonies. The Browns' owners, Dee and Jimmy Haslam, released a statement expressing their grief. "This is an incredibly difficult day for us and the entire Cleveland Browns organization, " they said. "His impact as the Voice of the Browns for 25 years is immeasurable. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on forever. "