Jim Donovan Obituary, Death – The city of Cleveland and its sports community are mourning the passing of Jim Donovan, the iconic sportscaster and beloved voice of the Cleveland Browns. Jim, who worked at WKYC for nearly four decades and brought Cleveland Browns games to life as their radio announcer for 25 seasons, passed away at the age of 68 following a courageous battle with cancer. His steadfast presence on Cleveland airwaves and unbreakable bond with fans have left an indelible legacy in Northeast Ohio.
Jim Donovan, affectionately known as “Jimmy” to those closest to him, leaves behind his wife, Cheryl, and daughter, Meghan, who were his constant support throughout his career and personal journey. WKYC President and General Manager Micki Byrnes shared heartfelt words of remembrance: “It’s hard to overstate Jimmy’s impact on all sports, all teams, and all fans here in Northeast Ohio. His passion and love for the game were truly unique. We’ve all lost someone very special, and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Cheryl and daughter Meghan.”
This past June, Jimmy retired from his long-held position as WKYC’s sports and news anchor, a role he had embraced since joining the station in 1985. Reflecting on his time at WKYC, he said, “It’s been an amazing run, and I am so thankful for the support from our viewers, Browns fans, my colleagues, and all who have been a part of the journey. I’m looking forward to spending more time with Cheryl and my daughter, Meghan.” Although he had initially planned to continue his role as “The Voice of the Browns,” his cancer returned aggressively, leading to his decision to step away from the radio booth in September. Nevertheless, he managed to call all three of the Browns’ preseason games before ultimately retiring.
In his farewell note to fans, Jimmy shared the profound joy he found in his role with the Browns. “Not a day has gone by when I haven’t paused and been so proud to be ‘The Voice of the Browns,’” he wrote. “Cheryl, Meghan, and I thank you for all the love, support, and prayers during my rough patches. It’s like having a huge family around us. And that’s what makes the Cleveland Browns so special. You do.”
Jim Donovan’s journey to becoming a Cleveland legend began in Boston, where he was born in 1956. After graduating from Boston University, he honed his skills in Minnesota as a radio sports director before working his way through various stations in New England. By 1985, at age 29, Jimmy arrived in Cleveland, taking a position as the weekend sports anchor at WKYC. Within a year, he rose to become the lead sports anchor for 3News, a position he would hold until his retirement.
Jimmy’s on-air talent gained national attention in 1987 when he began working with NBC as an NFL play-by-play announcer. This role, along with his work at the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics, broadened his reach as a broadcaster, though Cleveland always remained his true home. When the Browns returned as an expansion team in 1999, Jimmy was chosen as the radio play-by-play announcer, a position he cherished.
During his 25-year tenure as the “Voice of the Browns,” Jimmy brought energy, humor, and emotional depth to every game. Fans clung to his voice through coaching changes, front office shakeups, and difficult seasons. Jimmy remained a trusted friend to listeners, creating a comforting familiarity every Sunday. “This is an incredibly difficult day for us and the entire Cleveland Browns organization,” said Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jim Donovan. His impact as the Voice of the Browns for 25 years is immeasurable, as he touched the lives of our fans each and every Sunday with his love for the Browns and his brilliance at his craft.”
Jimmy’s resilience, kindness, and dedication to his craft made him a beloved figure in Cleveland sports. Despite the challenges he faced in his battle with cancer, he continued to prioritize his family, his work, and his beloved Browns fans. For many, Jim Donovan wasn’t just a broadcaster; he was an emblem of Cleveland’s spirit, a passionate voice that carried fans through the highs and lows with grace and humor.
As the Cleveland community grieves, they find solace in the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of unwavering commitment, loyalty, and genuine love for the city and its people. Funeral arrangements for Jim Donovan will be announced at a later date
