In a 2016 interview with the Los Angeles Daily News, legendary sportscaster Vin Scully talked candidly about the role faith had had in his 67 season career. He spoke openly of his prayers during the 1988 World Series and his plans to attend a Catholic mass right before his final broadcast that year. A devout Catholic, Scully described his connection to Mass saying that, “…I think I can see [heaven] from here, especially at Mass.” Despite an impressive career that witnessed many remarkable sports experiences, such as Hank Aaron breaking Babe Ruth’s record, Scully gave all the credit to God. “I know some people won’t understand it, but I think it has been God’s generosity to put me in these places and let me enjoy it,” he said. As he went over his memories of his impressive career, he said, “When the time comes to sign off for good, I’ll look back with joy.”

As of Tuesday, Scully officially signed off, passing away at the age of 94 at his home in Hidden Hills, California. Scully was born in 1927 to Vincent and Bridget Scully in the  Bronx. He became  baseball fan at 8 years old when he learned of the results of the 1936 World Series and became a sympathetic fan of the New Giants. After serving in the United States Navy, he attended Fordham University as an English major and helped found the school’s FM radio station. In 1950, he joined the Dodgers’ television and radio booths when the Dodgers were based in Brooklyn. His 67 season career would span the team’s eventual move to LA and be became the “voice of the Dodgers.” He was well liked for his humorous broadcasts and occasional commentary, such as criticisms against socialism. He was further endeared to the public by the ways he handled personal tragedies, such as the accidental death of his first wife and the death of his second wife from ALS.

Scully’s life and influence went further than calling baseball games as tributes poured in after his death was announced. Jason Romano of the  Sports Spectrum Podcast retweeted a Tweet from 2020, recalling how Scully had encouraged him to,  “Pray a little bit more, like most of us will do and above all, try to smile.” Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw stated he was “the best there ever was.” Former Dodgers player Yasiel Puig stated, “[Scully] gave me love.” A humble and religious man, his passing profoundly impacted people both in and out of the sports world. In his interview with the Los Angeles Daily News, when asked how he wanted to be remembered, he said, “I just want to be remembered as a good man, an honest man, and one who lived up to his own beliefs.” As the tributes pour in, it appears Scully did just that.