Harry Porterfield, beloved former CBS 2 News anchor, dead at 95

Legendary former CBS 2 news reporter and anchor Harry Porterfield has passed away at the age of 95, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy in the Chicago community.

Remembering the Legacy of Harry Porterfield, a Legendary News Reporter

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Harry Porterfield, a legendary news reporter and anchor, at the age of 95. Harry’s family confirmed that he peacefully passed away on Monday morning, surrounded by his loved ones in Munster, Indiana. Throughout his remarkable 51-year career in television, including nearly three decades at CBS 2, Harry made an indelible mark on the industry and the hearts of viewers.

An Illustrious Television Career Filled with Compassion

Harry Porterfield’s journey in the world of television began in 1964 when he joined CBS 2 as a newswriter. However, it was his warmth, gravitas, and rich voice that propelled him to become a beloved reporter and anchor. Harry’s passion for storytelling led him to create his own segment called “Someone You Should Know,” where he highlighted the extraordinary achievements of ordinary Chicagoans. His genuine love for everyday people and their stories resonated deeply with viewers, making him a trusted and cherished figure in their lives.

A Boycott and Triumphant Return to CBS 2

In the mid-80s, a regrettable decision by station management led to Harry’s removal from the anchor desk. This move sparked outrage within the African American community, as Harry was one of the few Black anchors in Chicago at the time. Rainbow PUSH spearheaded a boycott of CBS 2, and Harry subsequently joined ABC 7. However, his undeniable talent and unwavering dedication brought him back to CBS 2 in 2009, where he anchored the 11 a.m. newscast and continued his beloved “Someone You Should Know” segments for 6 ½ years until his retirement in 2015. This triumphant return showcased the immense impact Harry had on the community and the enduring love and respect he garnered throughout his career.

Harry Porterfield’s contributions to journalism and his unwavering commitment to sharing the stories of others will forever be remembered. His passing leaves a void in the industry, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of reporters. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife of 55 years, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and the countless viewers whose lives he touched. While his funeral will be private, his family is planning a public memorial in Chicago to honor the remarkable life of Harry Porterfield.

Remembering the Legacy and Impact of Harry Porterfield

Harry Porterfield, a legendary news reporter and anchor, leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered. Throughout his illustrious career, Harry made a profound impact on the field of journalism and the lives of those he touched. His unwavering dedication to storytelling and his genuine compassion for everyday people set him apart as an admired and well-loved journalist.

An Admired and Well-Loved Journalist

Harry Porterfield’s warm and engaging presence on television made him a trusted figure in the lives of viewers. His ability to connect with people and tell their stories with empathy and authenticity earned him the admiration of both his colleagues and the community he served. Harry’s “Someone You Should Know” segments showcased the extraordinary achievements of ordinary Chicagoans, highlighting the resilience, compassion, and strength of the human spirit. His commitment to giving a voice to those who often went unnoticed or unheard made him a beloved figure in the hearts of many.

An Unforgettable Legacy for Chicago

Harry Porterfield’s impact on the city of Chicago is immeasurable. His long and storied career, spanning over five decades, left an indelible mark on the industry and the community. As one of the few Black anchors in Chicago during his time, Harry broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of journalists. His return to CBS 2 after a boycott led by Rainbow PUSH demonstrated the immense respect and admiration he commanded. Harry’s humility and dedication to his craft earned him the love and trust of viewers, making him an iconic figure in the city.

Harry Porterfield’s passing is a loss not only for his family but also for the entire Chicago community. His unforgettable legacy will continue to inspire and influence journalists for years to come. We extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and express our gratitude for the remarkable contributions he made to the field of journalism. Harry Porterfield’s impact will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of witnessing his extraordinary career.

Honoring the Life of Harry Porterfield: Funeral and Memorial Plans

As we remember the remarkable life and legacy of Harry Porterfield, plans are underway to pay tribute to this beloved news reporter and anchor. While his passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, his family is organizing events to celebrate his life and the impact he had on the Chicago community.

A Private Funeral to Bid Farewell

In accordance with the wishes of Harry Porterfield’s family, his funeral will be a private affair, allowing them to grieve and say their final goodbyes in an intimate setting. This private gathering will provide an opportunity for his loved ones to come together, share memories, and find solace in each other’s presence. It will be a time to honor Harry’s life, his accomplishments, and the love he shared with his family.

A Public Memorial to Remember and Reflect

In recognition of the profound impact Harry had on the lives of countless individuals, his family is planning a public memorial in Chicago. This memorial will serve as a gathering for friends, colleagues, and members of the community to come together and pay their respects. It will be a time to share stories, reminisce about Harry’s extraordinary career, and celebrate the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Details regarding the public memorial are yet to be announced, but it promises to be a meaningful and heartfelt event. It will provide an opportunity for all those whose lives were touched by Harry to come together, united in their appreciation for his contributions to journalism and his unwavering dedication to sharing the stories of others.

As we prepare to bid farewell to Harry Porterfield, let us remember the impact he had on our lives and the lives of those around us. His memory will live on through the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the inspiration he provided. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones during this difficult time, and we join together in honoring the extraordinary life of Harry Porterfield.

Harry Porterfield, the legendary former CBS 2 news reporter and anchor, has passed away at the age of 95. With a career spanning over 50 years in Chicago television, Harry was known for his warmth, gravitas, and rich voice. He created the popular segment “Someone You Should Know,” highlighting the extraordinary stories of ordinary Chicagoans. Despite facing challenges, including being pulled from the anchor desk in the mid-80s, Harry’s impact on the community was undeniable. He leaves behind a lasting legacy and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Harry Porterfield.