Bob Sheppard had that distinct voice like that of James Earl Jones’ Darth Vader.His voice guided the Yankee fans through all their victories, from 1951 to 2007, introducing the players until he took ill.
Yesterday, Mr. Sheppard died at age 99, and the distinct, soothing voice was silenced. It must be noted that Mr. Sheppard did not engage in gimmicks or props when introducing the Yankee players, he was his natural, polite self.
It is said that Mr. Sheppard was such a gentleman, that the Yankees volatile owner, George Steinbrenner, never had the instinct or inclination to fire Mr. Sheppard, as was habit. Instead, Mr. Steinbrenner referred to Mr. Sheppard as the “Gold Standard.”
Because of Sheppard’s illness in 2007, he had to record the players’ introduction and his trade mark welcome to the fans to Yankee Stadium.
The new Yankee stadium, which opened last year, honored Mr. Sheppard fittingly by naming the media room after him.
These are some of the seminal sport moments that Mr. Sheppard was part of: Roger Maris’ No. 61 home runs; Reggie Jackson’s three homers in a single World Series game; and he was present when the Giants finally reached the Super Bowl.
Mr. Sheppard had never missed an opening day at Yankee Stadium, from 1951 until a hip injury sidelined him in 2006 – now that’s longevity.
In the coming All Star game, perennial Yankee favorite and Captain, Derek Jeter, will pay homage to Bob Sheppard by once more using his voice to introduce him when Jeter is up to bat. Serenade your heavenly hosts Mr. Sheppard.
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