Jim Donovan, beloved for many years as the “Voice of the Cleveland Browns,” passed away on Saturday after a lengthy fight with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). He was 68 years old.

“This day is profoundly sad for us as well as the entire Cleveland Browns family,” stated team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam. “We are heartbroken over Jim Donovan’s passing. His influence as the Voice of the Browns over the past 25 years is immeasurable, as he connected with our fans every Sunday through his passion for the team and his exceptional skills.”

Donovan was first diagnosed with CLL in 2000 and underwent a bone marrow transplant in the summer of 2011. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in May 2023, prompting him to take a break from broadcasting for treatment. Although he returned in November, the leukemia resurfaced again earlier this year, causing him to retire from announcing at the end of August.

“He will be deeply missed, but his legacy is one that will endure forever. His love for this city and team was only surpassed by his devotion to his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Cheryl, his daughter, Meghan, and all who were lucky enough to be considered family or friends to Jim.”

Donovan’s commentary during Browns games often stood out, even during a long stretch of disappointing seasons for the team. He had a talent for speaking candidly, even when it reflected poorly on the team, but his enthusiasm during critical moments was always palpable.

“That’s it!” shouted Donovan as the clock ran out in the Browns’ playoff-qualifying victory over the New York Jets on December 28. “The Browns are heading to the playoffs! The postseason is back in Cleveland!”

“He had long waited for a play-by-play position, and he never took it for granted,” stated Doug Dieken, former Browns offensive tackle and Donovan’s long-time broadcasting partner from 1999-2000 in an interview with Cleveland.com’s Terry Pluto in August. “He loved every moment of being involved with the Browns. That’s why this must be particularly hard for him.”

The Browns honored Donovan by inducting him into the Cleveland Browns Legends during pregame festivities ahead of their Week 3 match against the New York Giants. Unfortunately, due to health issues, he was unable to attend the event.

“He had an extraordinary ability to maintain accuracy and honesty while also being supportive,” Phil Dawson, former Browns kicker, shared in a Zoom call on September 19. “I don’t know how he achieved that balance. After a tough loss, I would often listen to his commentary and found that he presented what occurred with such class, which I truly valued.

“He had a deep understanding of Cleveland, and he captured the emotions of the community, be it frustration or joy. He managed to blend all of that beautifully, and it was truly an honor to have him calling every game during my time as a Brown.”

Donovan’s last public message to fans was shared through the Browns after he retired from broadcasting on August 29. It was a letter released by the team.

In the letter, he talked about his ongoing health struggles but maintained his usual positivity regarding the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys and the team’s prospects.

Nonetheless, it was the third paragraph that encapsulated his bond with Browns fans.

“For 25 years, I have been the voice calling Browns games,” he wrote. “There hasn’t been a single day that I didn’t feel pride in being ‘The Voice of the Browns.’ Cheryl, Meghan, and I are grateful for the endless support, love, and prayers during my tougher moments. It feels like we have a big family around us, and that’s what makes the Cleveland Browns special. It’s you. … It has been a privilege, Jim Donovan.”

Donovan began his career with the Browns as their radio broadcaster when the franchise was reinstated in 1999, making him the eighth person to hold that position since the original franchise was established. Like many of his predecessors, including Nev Chandler, Casey Coleman, and Gib Shanley, Donovan was already well-known in Cleveland as the sports director for WKYC-TV Channel 3.

The last game he broadcast for the Browns was their preseason finale against the Seattle Seahawks on August 24. He had completed his final broadcast for Channel 3 prior to his retirement in June.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, and daughter, Meghan.