Legendary Sports Journalist and Commentator Frank Deford Dies at 78

Legendary sports journalist and commentator, Frank Deford died suddenly in his home on Sunday. He was 78.

His wife broke the news on Monday and said that he died from an illness. He leaves behind a legacy of wit and philosophical brilliance.

"Nothing has pleased me so much as when someone, usually a woman, writes me or tells me that she's appreciated sports more because NPR allowed me to treat sports seriously as another branch on the tree of culture," Deford said in his last words of his final NPR article. "Thank you for listening. Thank you for abiding me. And now, Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, I bid you goodbye, and take my leave."

Taking up a position writing for Sports Illustrated, Deford became renowned for his philosophical way of thinking about sports and its players. His way of storytelling and thoughts made him a household name among sports fans. Additionally, throughout his life Deford wrote over a dozen books. In 2012, he was honored with The National Humanities Medal from then-President Barack Obama "for transforming how we think about sports." Deford described this moment as being the one he was most proud of in his life.

Deford leaves behind his wife, Carol, and their two children Christian and Scarlet. Across social media his fans and followers have come forward and shared their thoughts and prayers for Deford's family. 

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Deford family and all those who were close to him.