James Jennett

James “Jim” Brooks Jennett, 80, passed away on May 24, 2025, at home in Purchase, NY. Jim was born on August 12, 1944, in Kansas City, MO to Joe and Helyn Jennett. He graduated from the University of Missouri where he studied journalism and worked at KMBC-TV. In 1967, Jim moved to New York City where he began work at ABC Sports, eventually becoming a director. During this time, he directed nine Olympic games, 38 British Open golf championships, other golf majors, Monday night football, college football, and other major sporting events. He won nine Emmy Awards for his contribution to Wide World of Sports and for directing the 2005 British Open golf championship. He left ABC Sports in 2006 and retired in 2016.

While at ABC Jim met his wife, Jacquelyn, to whom he was married for 54 years. They had two daughters, Heather and Brooke, who they raised in Dobbs Ferry, NY where they lived for 43 years. He enjoyed spending time on Cape Cod, loyally rooting for his Kansas Chiefs and Royals, and connecting with friends, old and new. Towering in stature but gentle at his core, he moved through life with humility, an open mind and heart, and a genuine curiosity. He always saw the best in people and brought warmth, kindness, and quiet confidence to every interaction. His life, well-lived and loved, was filled with unforgettable stories — and he took great joy in sharing them.

Jim is survived by his wife Jacquelyn, his daughters Heather Jennett and Brooke Koch (Robert), and his four grandchildren Rowan Sponberg (15), Hayden Sponberg (11), Alden Koch (10), and Lindy Koch (6). He was pre-deceased by his brother, Joe.

A memorial service was held at Edwards-Dowdle Funeral Home in Dobbs Ferry, NY. He was lovingly buried in his final resting place at Brewster Cemetery on Lower Road in Brewster, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org) or Tunnels to Towers Foundation (t2t.org) in Jim’s memory.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.