For decades, Johnny Pesky was a living link for Red Sox players and fans to the team's storied and often star-crossed history. He spent most of his 60-plus years in baseball with the franchise, as an infielder, broadcaster, manager, coach and ambassador. His passing on Monday at the age of 92 drew heartfelt reactions from fans, many of whom shared memories of meeting him in person.

• BUSTERW11: "No other athletes or celebrities passing has hit me as much as this one. When my wife and I got engaged on the field it was JP who was the first to congratulate us. He took time after to talk with us and pose for pictures. I will say that a tear was shed today by this red sox nation member. Rip Johnny and take scooter out with a slide into second for us."
• orion77js: "Johnny Pesky is as much a part of the Boston Red Sox as the Green Monster, the foul pole that bears his name, and the ballpark itself. He was the actual living, breathing, heart and soul of the Red Sox. Fenway, The Red Sox, and ALL of Red Sox Nation have lost their heart today. RIP #6. Time to go play some ball with your friends who left before you. Thank You for being our heart ... A sad member of the Nation"
• palermo15: "My wife and first met you and your wife in the Holiday Day in Winter Haven.When you found out we were fron New England,our conversation lasted nearly a half hour. You both were so gracious. In 2008 we were in Fort Meyers for Spring trainning and talked to again. I took a picture of you with my wife, Carole in your lap. We dug that out yesterday and it now sits on a hutch in our dining room. GOD BLESS you Johhny"
• Jonesy51794: "Such a nice guy. I would always go to the spring training when I was little and he would be there the entire practice sitting down signing autographs and taking pictures with everyone. Every year I would come and I didn't think he would remember me but he always did and would make comments like "wow I guess I can't call you my little buddy anymore. How tall are you now? 8 feet?" I always looked forward to seeing Johnny there and it's sad he won't be there next year. R.I.P. to a great man. We're going to miss you Johnny."
• deejaydoubleu925: "Very sad day for Red Sox Nation. We lost a legend. I got to play catch with him at Fenway over 20 years ago, its something I will tell my grandkids someday. Its one of my favorite memories. RIP Johnny"
• Hamp78: "I met Johnny Pesky in the 70's at a game out front of fenway park. He was in a hurry but stopped to chat with me. He even told me and old story of his youth. We were the same height and he told me your a shortstop right. I asked him how he knew he looked at me and said it's in your eyes son. You have those eyes and hands bet you can hum a baseball right. I smiled and said with every ounce of strength. Yup your one welcome to the club. As he smiled and walked away he looked back and raised his arm and fist closed saluted me."




Join the conversation or respond by signing in or creating a profile and blogging.