Oklahoma has lost a broadcasting giant.

KFOR Sports Director Bob Barry Jr. died on Saturday afternoon on the way to the hospital following a motorcycle accident in Oklahoma City. He was 58.

According to KFOR, the Norman native graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1980 and joined NewsChannel 4 in 1982 as a weekend sports anchor. Prior to that, Bob worked in Wichita Falls, Texas and at KAUT-TV here in Oklahoma City.

The man affectionately known as “Junior” also hosted a popular sports talk radio show on WWLS “The Sports Animal” on weekday mornings.

Bob was a six-time “Oklahoma Sportscaster of the Year” who was passionate about helping others. His charity, The Foul Shots, has helped raise more than $1 million for various charities across the state of Oklahoma. Barry was beloved by many he worked with and covered, and some prominent figures took the time to share their thoughts.

A statement from OU Head Football Coach Bob Stoops:

I am extremely saddened to hear of Bobs passing, and I know everyone connected with our program shares those sentiments. He was a one of the most respected and recognized sportscasters in our state, and a beloved friend to many. Our work will never be the same without him. We send our most heartfelt condolences to his family.

From OSUs Mike Gundy:

Growing up in Midwest City, Ive known Bob Barry, Jr., for the last 30 years and it saddens me greatly to hear of his passing. Not only was he outstanding at his profession, but he was a genuinely caring man whose demeanor and personality had a positive impact on everyone around him. BBJ was an institution in our state and he will be sorely missed.

And from Thunder Chairman Clay Bennett:

We send our thoughts and prayers to the Barry family, his TV and radio colleagues, and all who knew and loved him. Oklahoma sports broadcasting has lost one of its finest.

According to the fatality accident supervisor, a car was driving southbound on N. May Avenue, and after making a U-turn in front of Barrys motorcycle, the two collided. The driver of the car was arrested for a complaint of driving without a license.

Bob is survived by his wife Gina and four children.

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