PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Jay Greenberg, a longtime Flyers beat writer who entered the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013 and authored two books about the franchise, died Thursday after battling a monthslong illness. He was 71.
In a statement, the Flyers said Greenberg "dedicated his life to writing and had a truly special ability to tell a story in a way that not many could."
Greenberg covered the franchise for 14 years between the Sunday and Evening bulletins in the ’70s and the Daily News from 1978 to ’89. Greenberg also wrote for the New York Post, Toronto Star, The Hockey News and Sports Illustrated.
He authored “Full Spectrum,” chronicling the Flyers’ history at their 30-year mark, as well as “The Philadelphia Flyers at 50.”
Word of Greenberg’s death spread on social media late Thursday night and well into the morning. His expansive career is leaving behind wakes in several major markets and two countries.
Bill Meltzer, a contributing writer for the Flyers, wrote a touching tribute for Greenberg.
Meltzer said Greenberg remained “sharp as a tack until the very end,” despite not being able to independently write, move or have much strength in his voice. Meltzer said “Jay was still Jay” during a couple of recent visits — “witty, wise, inquisitive and plugged in on what was going on with his beloved Pittsburgh Pirates as well as the hockey world.”
Meltzer disclosed Greenberg was at peace with his situation.
Dozens of other renowned sports insiders across multiple generations and former players paid tribute to him, only illustrating the vast number of lives and fellow writers he influenced.
According to Meltzer, Greenberg’s family asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to support animals, the Public Broadcasting Service, the American Heart Association, American Red Cross and other nonprofits. It’s also asked that blood and organ donations be supported to help others.
Greenberg was married to his wife, Mona, for 44 years and was father to daughters Elizabeth and Stephanie. He is also survived by his sister, Gail.
The National Institute of Health and Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, to which Jay has donated his brain for study, are not going to find any deterioration of his mind, only his motor abilities, his family wrote.