John DiSangro, a behind-the-scenes legend in Philadelphia sports broadcasting and a longtime confidant of Hall of Fame coach John Chaney, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from a heart attack at his home in Fairless Hills. He was 60 years old.
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From Tacony Roots to Temple University
Born in Tacony, Philadelphia, John was the son of John and Rose Mary DiSangro. He grew up in a close-knit rowhouse community on Ditman Street, where his early love for sports flourished. Older neighborhood kids often quizzed him on sports stats and lineups, fueling a deep passion for the game that never left him.
After graduating from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1983, John attended Temple University, majoring in journalism. A chance encounter during an interview led to an opportunity that would shape his life: he joined Coach Chaney’s basketball staff as a student manager.
Over Two Decades of Temple Basketball Excellence
For over 20 seasons with the Temple Owls, John DiSangro became an indispensable part of the program. He coordinated travel, scouted opponents, managed tickets, and, in true DiSangro fashion, never forgot to bring donuts for the coaching staff—by 5:30 a.m. sharp. His loyalty and dedication earned him a place in Temple Basketball’s Ring of Honor in 2017.
“Chaney took John under his wing,” said his brother, Steve DiSangro. “He was like a son to him. Their bond was incredible.”
Under their watch, Temple reached 17 NCAA tournaments and made five Elite Eight appearances. When Coach Chaney retired in 2006, John transitioned into broadcasting.
A Second Chapter with the Phillies and Comcast SportsNet
John joined Comcast SportsNet, where he became an associate producer for Philadelphia Phillies telecasts. He managed graphics, directed trivia segments, and traveled with the team—earning a World Series ring in 2008. Broadcaster Tom McCarthy remarked, “If something needed to get done, John was the one who made sure it happened.”
John’s humility and tireless work ethic made him beloved behind the scenes. Known affectionately as “Gaya,” he was always dependable and always kind.
The Quiet Force Behind the Spotlight
“He was like a bass player in a rock band,” said John Slobotkin, who hired DiSangro to help run Phillies broadcasts. “You might not notice him, but everything worked because of him.”
Whether it was reviewing Coach Chaney’s lottery tickets or ensuring logistics ran smoothly, John did it all without fanfare—but with incredible care.
A Life Remembered and Celebrated
John DiSangro is survived by his longtime partner Daryl Ehrhart; his children Christin and John (Jennifer); grandchildren Christin, Jason, Jordan, Z., Reese, and Declan; siblings Steve (Linda), Gina (John), and Mary (Roy); and his nephews Rocco, Lucas, John, and Christopher.
Visitation and Funeral Details
Visitation will be held at James J. Dougherty Funeral Home in Levittown on:
- Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.
Conclusion: Honoring John DiSangro’s Lasting Legacy
John DiSangro’s life was marked by dedication, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to the people and teams he loved. He was a trusted teammate, a dependable friend, and a quiet force behind some of Philadelphia’s most memorable sports moments. As Temple and Phillies communities alike reflect on his passing, his legacy will live on—in every early morning practice, every road trip, and every story shared in the hallways of sports history.
Rest in peace, John DiSangro.