November 1, 2025

The sports world in Philadelphia dimmed a bit on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, when Harry Donahue, a legendary sports broadcaster, died at the age of 77. He had been battling cancer for years but never lost his passion for sports. Known as the "longtime voice of the Owls," Temple University officially announced his passing. Donahue's deep and friendly voice narrated countless football and men’s basketball games, making him a beloved figure in Pennsylvania’s sports scene. Even during his illness, he stayed connected to the sports he loved. Temple’s former coach Fran Dunphy shared touching memories, saying Donahue “handled everything with so much class.” Earlier this year, Harry spoke fondly about his career, saying, “Can I think of any job I’d rather have than talking sports in the city I love?” These words show just how much Philadelphia meant to him. Harry Donahue’s career started in 1974 at KYW Newsradio. He worked his way up from freelancer to full-time anchor, spending 35 years there until he retired in 2014. His journey with Temple football began in 1984, and he quickly became the trusted voice for men’s basketball too. His storytelling was warm, detailed, and full of heart. He wasn’t just about Temple. Donahue also covered the Philadelphia Eagles and 76ers and hosted the "Inside Golf" show on NBC Sports Philadelphia. His talents earned him a place in the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 2000, and Temple’s Basketball Ring of Honor in 2020. The sports community flooded social media with tributes after his death. Temple Athletic Director Arthur Johnson summed it up perfectly: Donahue “was more than the voice of Temple Athletics, he was the heartbeat of our community.” Former Temple star Paul Palmer recalled how Donahue guided him not just as a player but also on his path to broadcasting. Harry Donahue was more than a sports commentator. To generations of Philly fans, he was the familiar, comforting sound of home. His legacy will echo in the heartbeats of Philadelphia’s sports lovers for years to come.

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Tags: Harry Donahue, Temple University, Philadelphia Sports, Sports broadcaster, Cancer Battle, Legacy,