Last night, legendary Atlanta Braves announcer Ernie Johnson, Sr. passed away at the age of 87. He came to Atlanta with the Braves as they moved from Milwaukee to the South in 1965. He was originally the Braves color announcer starting his broadcasting career in 1962 after being a pitcher in the organization starting in 1950 when the team was in Boston. He was one of the few people who was involved with the Braves in all three of its cities.
He was the only broadcaster who moved with the team from Milwaukee to Atlanta and to many fans was the Voice of the Braves. Starting in 1976, Johnson formed one of the greatest local broadcast teams with Skip Caray and Pete Van Wieren and through Superstation TBS, gained a huge following as the Braves were shown nationally on cable TV.
Johnson eventually retired in 1999 leaving Caray and Van Wieren to carry on with the Braves.
He leaves behind his wife, two daughters, one son and seven grandchildren.
Turner Sports provides this statement on the passing of Mr. Johnson.
The Turner Sports family is saddened by the loss of Ernie Johnson Sr. He was an iconic voice who helped create a national fan base for TBS’ baseball coverage of the Atlanta Braves. Our deepest sympathies to his wife Lois, his children Ernie Jr, Chris and Dawn, and his grandchildren,” said David Levy, president of sales, distribution and sports for Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.
Ernie Johnson, Jr. had been hosting the PGA Championship for TNT at the Atlanta Athletic Club. In the wake of his father’s passing, he will not work this weekend and Verne Lundquist will host in his place. Our condolences to the Johnson family in their time of loss.
