Award-winning sports writer and Westport native Frank Deford passed away at the age of 78.

Deford spent 50 years as a writer for Sports Illustrated and wrote many of his books while living in Connecticut. He was also a commentator for NPR for almost 40 years and recorded most of his stories at WSHU in Bridgeport.

Westport Library executive director Bill Hammer says Deford will be greatly missed.

"It does feel like we lost a member of our family," says Hammer. "He was clearly a giant and maybe the greatest sports writer of his generation, and known for having that incredible unique voice."

Sirius XM's Chris Russo, who lives in New Canaan, says Deford was one of the best.