John Ward, legendary ‘Voice of the Vols’, dies at 88

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — “It is with a heavy heart that we announce a great voice has gone silent.” This is the statement the Vol Network released on Wednesday night announcing the passing of legendary Tennessee broadcaster, John Ward.

Ward was 88.

John Ward was Tennessee. “The Voice of the Vols” for 34 seasons in basketball and 31 seasons in football, brought many legendary calls to Tennessee basketball and football fans, and sports fans in general.

From “Touchdown Tennessee” to “Give Him Six”, John Ward’s calls will forever go down in University of Tennessee’s greatest ever.

Tennessee has lost its Voice. pic.twitter.com/ayqMRqH6wU

— Vol Network (@VolNetwork_IMG) June 21, 2018

His final season announcing games on the Vol Network was Tennessee’s 1998 national championship win; he retired for good after the following basketball season.

Many broadcasters found inspiration from Ward in their own careers – even 104-5 The Zone broadcasters took to Twitter to express their gratitude.

I’m saddened. John Ward is a resounding voice of my childhood and a staple in this great state. He will be missed. https://t.co/j9VfkWuEbW

— Chad Withrow (@withrowzone) June 21, 2018

What are your favorite memories of John Ward? Call us at 615-737-1045.
Listen LIVE: https://t.co/5wgs236LPT

— The Midday 180 (@Midday180) June 21, 2018

Sorry to hear about the death of Tennessee icon John Ward, one of the legendary voices of the SEC. A group of us had lunch with him a few years ago, was very cool. Mr. Ward was a really interesting guy, way more than just broadcasting.

— Kevin Ingram (@KIngramSports) June 21, 2018

This one hits hits me hard. John Ward & his iconic cadence and delivery of play-by-play, was a big part of my youth. He IS the @VolNetwork_IMG. Countless numbers of @Vol_Football fans are hurting tonight and I’m right there with you. #givehimsix https://t.co/IcuIj9pE3R

— Rhett Bryan (@rhettbtennessee) June 21, 2018

All day Thursday, we will look back on the life and career of Vols broadcasting legend John Ward https://t.co/SHmVn606Dh

— 104-5 The Zone (@1045TheZone) June 21, 2018

Ward did not miss one game in more the 350 consecutive broadcasts.

Former Tennessee Football head coach and now UT’s athletic director said in a statement:

“Our entire Tennessee family mourns the loss of the great John Ward,” Fulmer said. The University of Tennessee has lost one of its most beloved ambassadors. For generations of Vol fans, John’s voice brought to life many of their fondest memories of Tennessee football and basketball. His visionary thinking paved the way for the Vol Network’s rise to prominence as the standard bearer for intercollegiate athletics marketing and broadcasting.”

Fulmer continued, “Despite our shared sadness, I believe it is appropriate to proudly reflect on and cherish the fact that John was ours. We will ensure that his legacy and memory are appropriately honored in the days, months and years to come.”

Ward was honored on the field last season at Neyland Stadium and was greeted with a standing ovation.

The Wake Up Zone remembered John Ward Thursday morning with Tennessee’s Bob Kesling. Listen here: https://bit.ly/2lmt2uI