R.I.P.: Jeff Dickerson, Covered NFL Bears For ESPN

Jeff Dickerson, who covered the Chicago Bears for ESPN, died on Tuesday from complications of colon cancer at the age of 44, reports The NY Post.

Dickerson’s wife, Caitlin, died two years ago from melanoma, and the couple is survived by their 11-year-old son, Parker.

“JD was one of the most positive people you will ever meet,” ESPN deputy NFL editor Heather Burns said in a statement. “We all got together in October for an event, and there he was lifting our spirits and assuring us he was going to beat cancer. That’s just who he was. We are holding Jeff’s family, and especially his son, Parker, in our prayers.”

Dickerson’s friends and colleagues are remembering him as vibrant and helpful, in a competitive profession where that is not always the case.

“Everyone who knew Jeff Dickerson was better off for it,” tweeted Jon Greenberg of The Athletic. “I just can’t believe this is real.”

Dickerson had been a fixture at ESPN for 20 years, and in recent years was co-host of the “Dickerson and Hood” weekend show on ESPN Radio.

WMVP ESPN 1000 Chicago host Tom Waddle remembered Dickerson as selfless, and someone who showed grace amid his immense personal struggles.

The Bears released a statement remembering Dickerson and expressing the organization’s sympathies to his young son and family.

“We are absolutely heartbroken to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague Jeff Dickerson,” the team said. “Always the consummate professional, JD took a great deal of pride in his coverage of the Bears for 20 years. He was a true professional and even better person. JD always was one of the first media members to the press box on gameday, with a hello and a smile that could brighten anyone’s day. He was one of kind, and will be truly missed.”