Jerry Romig, The Voice Of The New Orleans Saints For 44 Years, Dies At Age 86

We are deeply saddened to pass along the news that Jerry Romig, the voice of the New Orleans Saints for 44 years, has passed away at age 86.

Romig was in the booth for the the Saints from their days at Tulane stadium, to the comeback after Katrina in the dome, to the year New Orleans won it all and brought home the Super Bowl trophy.

Romig was the familiar voice that coined familiar phrases in the Superdome, like "First dowwnnnnnnn, Saaiiinnnnnttss," "Cooollllllstoonnnnnnnnnnn," and many other fan favorites.

In addition to his work in the booth, Romig did so much more for his community, for which he will be remembered.

Although Mr. Romig's work as the play-by-play announcer for the Saints' home games was the activity for which he was best known, the lifelong New Orleanian led a varied life that included stints as a newspaper sports reporter while in his teens; an executive at two television stations; a fundraiser for the New Orleans Archdiocese; and the spokesman for Charity Hospital.

He credited a mixture of honey and lemon juice for keeping his signature voice in tip-top shape, and we know he'll be making his signature calls from heaven.

Rest in power, Mr. Romig. WHO DAT!

[via NOLA.com]