Bob Sheppard Passed Away This Morning
Via the AP –
The New York Yankees say longtime public address announcer Bob Sheppard has died. He was believed to be 99.
His death was confirmed to The Associated Press on Sunday by team spokesman Jason Zillo. Zillo didn’t immediately have additional details, but said the team would release them later in the day.
Sheppard started with the Yankees in 1951. His impeccable introductions of stars from Joe DiMaggio to Derek Jeter earned him the nickname “The Voice of God.”
Sheppard last worked at Yankee Stadium late in the 2007 season, when he became ill with a bronchial infection. He recorded a greeting to fans that was played at the original ballpark’s final game in September 2008. His audio recording still is used to introduce Jeter before each at-bat at home by the Yankees captain.
He told MLB.com in 2009 that he had no intention of returning to the job.
He was also the stadium announcer for the NFL’s New York Giants, who played at Yankee Stadium before moving to Giants Stadium, from 1956 through 2006.
Sad news. But, he had an incredible and full life. We should all be so lucky. Rest in peace Mr. Sheppard.
Echoes for Steve’s comment – what a life when you consider how many millions and millions of lives he was a part of over the nearly six decades for ANYONE who went to a Yankee game.
My guess is, when he gets to the pearly gates, St. Peter will ask Bob if he can record his outgoing voice mail message for him. RIP – Mr. Sheppard.
Goodbye, Mr. Sheppard. Life well done. Rest in peace.
I think many did not realize that He was also the Giants PA guy for 40 years
RIP to one of the enduring memories of my visits to the old ballpark across the street. I can’t count how many times I heard his voice but I know that every time I did, I thought “how cool is THIS guy?!”
Take it easy, Bob. Thanks for everything.
My best memory of him though was on TV (I think the tonight show) when they had him on with Mickey Mantle, and Mantle said, “I got chills every time I heard you announce my name.” Bob replies, “So did I.”
@ GDH:
I remember seeing that