Legendary Steelers reporter Dale Lolley dies at 56 after cancer battle
Longtime Steelers beat writer who covered the team since 1993 died after a cancer battle; announced a mouth cancer diagnosis in 2024 and later battled pneumonia. Survived by wife Amy and children Noah, Tanner and Madeline.
Dale Lolley, a longtime Pittsburgh Steelers reporter who covered the team for more than three decades, died Wednesday after a battle with mouth cancer. He was 56.
Lolley announced in May 2024 that he had been diagnosed with mouth cancer and was recovering from surgery; he later told fans in August that he was 'OK' after dealing with pneumonia.
Lolley’s reporting career spanned DK Pittsburgh Sports, Steelers Digest, and the Steelers' official site, where he became a contributing writer and editor in 2022. He also was a familiar voice on Steelers Nation Radio, co-hosting the program SNR Drive.
Born in Fryburg, Pa., in 1968, Lolley began his career at The Derrick in Oil City and later served as outdoors editor and Steelers beat writer for The Observer-Reporter in Washington, Pa.
In addition to his professional roles, his obituary notes his generosity, enthusiasm, and the countless lives he touched through sports. He is survived by his wife, Amy, and their children Noah, Tanner, and Madeline.
Messages of mourning and gratitude poured in on social media after the Steelers announced his passing. Jarrod Prugar, a fellow reporter, said, "Words cannot describe the impact Dale has had on me as a journalist." Zach Banner, the former Steelers offensive tackle, posted that Lolley "used to believe in me" and that the Burgh lost a great man.
The Steelers released a statement acknowledging Lolley's contributions and noting that he will be remembered as a trusted voice and a generous member of the Steelers family.