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Detroit Tigers PA announcer Jay Allen dies after cancer battle

Posted at 9:46 AM, Jan 24, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-24 14:15:45-05

(WXYZ) — Detroit Tigers public address announcer Jay Allen died on Friday morning after a battle with stage 4 cancer, his family announced. He was 60 years old.

In August, his family announced that Allen had stage 4 bile duct cancer that had spread to his liver and his lungs, and his battle began.

“The Detroit Tigers are deeply saddened to learn that the club’s public address announcer, Jay Allen, passed away this morning. Everyone admired Jay’s faith, determination and positive mindset during his fight with cancer. His vocal passion for the Tigers and sports across the state of Michigan endeared him to millions of fans, and his impact will never be forgotten. The Tigers extend their condolences to Jay’s family and friends at this trying time," the team said in a statement.

2019 was his first year as PA announcer for the Tigers, and the Grand Rapids native commuted back-and-forth from the west side of the state to Detroit for each Tigers home game. Previously, he was the PA announcer for the West Michigan Whitecaps.

On Wednesday, his family said that he was in kidey failure and that he only had seven days to live.

Family and friends are hoping to receive support for medical expenses. You can donate on his GoFundMe page .