Bob Nunnally, a fixture of Columbus, Ohio broadcasting for more than four decades, died Sunday morning, December 8, following complications during his recovery from pancreatic cancer. His passing came just months after announcing he was cancer-free and only days after entering hospice care.
The longtime NBC4 (WCMH) meteorologist, who stepped away from his on-air duties in early 2022 to focus on his health, had shared an optimistic video message with viewers in May declaring his victory over cancer.
“I’m cancer-free,” Nunnally said in the video. “My recovery has just been slow and start, stop, start, stop. I feel a little bit better and then I have a setback of some sort.” He added that while he had initially expected to return to work after surgery, “Well, you can see that didn’t work out.”
Nunnally’s family announced his passing and requested privacy “during this difficult time as we grieve our loss and personally contact family members.”
His broadcasting career began in 1977 when he joined iHeartMedia’s Columbus radio station WNCI. He later moved to WSNY in 1983, where he worked for 14 years. Nunnally’s television career started in 1994 as a substitute weathercaster for NBC4’s 10 p.m. newscast before becoming a full-time meteorologist.
Beyond his weather forecasting duties, Nunnally was deeply involved in community service. He supported various charitable organizations, including the American Heart Association and Cancer Society, and helped abandoned pets find homes through his “Find A Friend” segment at NBC4.
During Nunnally’s initial cancer battle in 2022, Today Show weatherman Al Roker had expressed support for his fellow meteorologist, saying, “We are with you as well. Sending thoughts and prayers and a speedy recovery back to your NBC4 family. So, take care.”
Funeral arrangements are pending. Nunnally spent his final moments surrounded by cherished mementos, including a custom-made blanket featuring favorite photos with his NBC4 colleagues.
