"He’ll be deeply missed": Former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh gives a heartfelt tribute to reporter Byron Barnett in light of his passing at 69

Tributes have been pouring in for Byron Barnett following the news of his passing on Sunday, August 3, 2025, after his prolonged battle with cancer. He was 69.

Barnett’s family announced his death in an official statement released by WHDH. They wrote that throughout his career of four decades, he “cherished the privilege of telling the stories of New Englanders who welcomed him into their lives.”

The statement added that he faced cancer with “unwavering courage” and passed away surrounded by his family. He joined WHDH in 1983 and became the host of the long-running public affairs show, Urban Update, as per Boston. Former Boston mayor Marty Walsh took to X, to pay Barnett an emotional tribute. He remembered Barnett as a “smart, principled, and honest" human being. He added:

“The work he did reflected our communities with heart and integrity. I’m thinking of his wife Kathleen, his family, and everyone at @7News tonight. He’ll be deeply missed.”

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Tributes pour in as Byron Barnett passes away

People are mourning the loss of WHDH reporter Byron Barnett. He was a beloved and respected figure in the Boston media community, best known for his dedication of 40 years to journalism at 7News. Here is how he is being remembered by several of his colleagues and fans.

Byron Barnett’s friend and colleague at 7News, Jonathan Hall, said:

“Simply, everyone loved the man. He was such a good reporter and communicator who loved a nasty Nor’easter, or ball game, or presidential race. He covered many of them.”

He added:

“A lot of prayers went his way over the last week or so while Byron was hospitalized. Thank you all I know his family appreciates the love. Condolences to Kathleen, Byron, Parker, KeeKee and the grandkids.”

Steve Cooper, a reporter at 7News, wrote on X:

“Sad announcement from 7News today as we remember one of the legends of the Boston broadcasting world…Byron Barnett who spent nearly 40 years at 7News prior to his retirement has passed away…Byron was kind,caring and above all a true professional…he will be missed #7News”

Bob Ward, a journalist at Boston 25, added:

“I am devastated to learn today of the passing of Boston TV Legend, Byron Barnett. We covered many stories together. He was always gracious, kind. I admired his reporting & tenacity. He was/is the absolute BEST.Peace to his family, friends, and colleagues at TV7.”

7News anchor Amaka Ubaka, wrote on Instagram,

“Always kind, always patient and so so wise. I’ll never forget your support, your advocacy. Thank you for showing me the way.”

Sports writer and researcher Dan Kelly wrote on X.

“RIP to legendary Boston news reporter Byron Barnett. He came to our house in 2018 to interview our oldest child after their triumphant return to school from cancer treatment after 15 months made national news. He was very kind. Rest easy Byron.”

James Hills, host of Java with Jimmy, wrote on X.

“Byron Barnett wasn’t just on TV… he was Boston media for so many of us. A Black man in this city holding it down in journalism for decades, when there weren’t many of US in those spaces. And he didn’t just show up, he showed out… with class, with truth, with love for us, and the stories.”

Barnett is survived by his wife, Kathleen.

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