Leaming's journey began with his early education at Kiski Preparatory School in Indiana County, where he was not just an academic student but also an active athlete. He earned letters in track and basketball and was the captain of the football team. His athletic prowess continued at the University of North Carolina, where he excelled in football, wrestling, and track, demonstrating a versatility and commitment that would characterize his professional life.
In the broadcasting arena, Leaming was known for his coverage of Princeton and Villanova games. His expertise and engaging broadcasting style led him to work on national sports shows and with NBC Sports, marking his rise in the field. However, sports broadcasting was not his only love; Leaming had a deep passion for harness horse racing. Alongside driver Stanley Dancer and others, he owned many harness horses and even took on the role of assistant general manager at Liberty Bell Race Track, highlighting his diverse interests and capabilities.
Leaming’s contribution to the field was not just professional but also personal. Colleagues like Skip Clayton, a member of Broadcast Pioneers, remembered him fondly. Clayton, who worked with Leaming, reminisced about their interactions and conversations on sports and big band music, painting a picture of a man who was not only a professional in his field but also a warm and approachable individual. Leaming’s work on television was highly regarded, and his partnership with fellow broadcasters Vince Leonard and Wally Kinnan was celebrated as one of the best in Philadelphia.
Sadly, after a prolonged illness, Jim Leaming passed away at Cooper Hospital-University Medical Center on January 23, 1991, at the age of 72. His legacy lives on in the memories of those who worked with him and the audience who enjoyed his broadcasts, marking him as a significant figure in Philadelphia’s broadcasting history.
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