Scott was the chief meteorologist for Today from 1980 to 1996, when he was replaced by Al Roker.
Willard Scott, the beloved longtime weatherman on NBC’sToday,has died.
“He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit.
Willard Scott.Alan Singer/NBC/NBC NewsWire/Getty
Willard was truly a broadcast #icon.”
Their images would be featured on Smucker’s jelly jars during episodes ofToday.
He graduated from American University with a degree in philosophy and religion.
He joinedTodayin 1980 as its weatherman and began celebrating centenarians on air three years later.
The plaza outside Rockefeller Center was renamed Willard Scott Way as a way to honor the longtime weatherman.
“I am heartbroken that the much loved Willard Scott has passed away,” wrote formerTodayanchor Katie Couric.
Scott was married to Mary Dwyer Scott from 1959 until her death in 2002.
They had two children.
He is survived by his wife of seven years, Paris Keena.
