Elise Finch, the beloved CBS New York meteorologist, passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2024, at the age of 51. Her sudden death shocked colleagues and viewers alike, leaving many to wonder about the circumstances surrounding her passing. The exact cause of Elise Finch’s death has not been publicly revealed.
Finch died in a New York hospital, according to reports from CBS News. While the details remain private, her colleagues described her death as unexpected. The loss of this bright star in local broadcasting has left a void in the New York media landscape and among her many fans.
The meteorologist’s untimely passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, coworkers, and viewers who admired her warmth and professionalism on screen. Finch had been a fixture at WCBS-TV since 2007, earning a reputation as a skilled forecaster and engaging personality. Her absence will be deeply felt by the CBS New York team and the community she served for nearly two decades.
Early Life and Education
Elise Finch’s journey began in Mount Vernon, New York, where she laid the foundation for her future career. Her educational path took her from local schools to prestigious universities, shaping her into the respected meteorologist she became.
Formative Years in Mount Vernon
Elise Finch grew up in Mount Vernon, a city in Westchester County, New York. She attended Mount Vernon High School, where she likely developed her initial interests in science and communication. The diverse community of Mount Vernon provided a rich backdrop for her early experiences, potentially influencing her future career path in broadcast journalism.
Academic Pursuits
Finch’s higher education began at Georgetown University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. This undergraduate experience laid the groundwork for her scientific understanding. She then pursued advanced studies at Syracuse University, obtaining a Master of Science in Broadcast Journalism. This combination of scientific knowledge and media skills proved invaluable in her future role as a meteorologist on television.
Media Career
Elise Finch built a distinguished career in broadcast meteorology, rising to prominence at WCBS-TV in New York City. Her journey spanned multiple stations and networks, showcasing her expertise and earning her industry recognition.
Broadcast Journalism Beginnings
Elise Finch’s media career began in local markets. She worked as an anchor and reporter at CBS and Fox affiliates WKBN and WYFX in Youngstown, Ohio. Finch later moved to the ABC affiliate KAAL in Austin, Minnesota, further honing her skills in broadcast journalism.
Her early experiences laid the foundation for her future success in meteorology. Finch’s ability to communicate complex weather information clearly and engagingly set her apart in these initial roles.
Rise to Prominence at WCBS
Finch joined WCBS-TV in New York City in 2007, marking a significant milestone in her career. She quickly became a familiar face to viewers, delivering weather forecasts on the station’s weekday morning news broadcasts.
Her expertise and on-air presence made her an integral part of the WCBS news team. Finch’s dedication to providing accurate and timely weather information earned her the trust of New York audiences.
Notable Career Milestones
Elise Finch’s career was marked by several achievements. She won an Emmy Award for her work as a meteorologist, recognizing her excellence in broadcast meteorology. Finch held the seal of approval from the American Meteorological Society, affirming her professional credentials.
Prior to WCBS, Finch worked for NBC’s Early Today show and MSNBC. She also contributed to NBC Weather Plus, showcasing her versatility across different networks and platforms. Her experience included a stint at E! Entertainment Television, demonstrating her range beyond weather reporting.
Personal Life
Elise Finch was deeply devoted to her family and had diverse interests outside of her meteorology career.
Family and Relationships
Elise Finch was married and had a daughter named Grace. She was a devoted mother who cherished her role as a parent. Finch often spoke fondly of her family, especially her daughter, in interviews and on social media.
Her sister Kiya played an important part in her life. After Finch’s unexpected passing, Kiya broke her silence to speak about the devastating loss.
Finch’s family was a source of strength and support throughout her career in television meteorology. She balanced her professional responsibilities with her commitment to being present for her loved ones.
Interests and Hobbies
Outside of her work as a meteorologist, Elise Finch had a passion for music. She enjoyed listening to various genres and attending concerts when her schedule allowed.
Finch was known to have an interest in fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She often incorporated exercise into her daily routine.
Travel was another hobby Finch enjoyed. She appreciated exploring new places and experiencing different cultures, sometimes combining these trips with her love for weather phenomena.
Finch also had a keen interest in fashion and style, which was evident in her on-air appearances and public events. She took pride in her professional image while expressing her personal taste.
Professional Relationships
Elise Finch’s career at CBS New York was marked by strong professional relationships and collaborations with her colleagues. Her interactions with fellow journalists and meteorologists contributed to her reputation as a respected and admired member of the news team.
Colleagues and Collaborations
Elise Finch worked closely with several prominent figures at CBS New York. She developed a strong rapport with anchor Chris Wragge and photojournalist Graig Henriques. Jessica Moore, another colleague, praised Finch’s professionalism and sense of humor.
Lonnie Quinn, the chief weathercaster at WCBS, highlighted Finch’s exceptional skills both in front of the green screen and during live field reporting. Her ability to connect with viewers and deliver accurate weather information earned her the respect of her peers.
Finch’s colleagues consistently described her as a gifted and consummate professional. Her dedication to her craft and care in her work made her a valuable team member at WCBS for 16 years.
Legacy and Impact
Elise Finch’s career as a meteorologist left an enduring mark on the field and touched countless lives. Her passion for science and communication inspired both colleagues and viewers alike.
Industry Recognition
Elise Finch earned significant accolades throughout her career. As an Emmy-winning meteorologist, she was recognized for her excellence in weather reporting and forecasting. Her expertise and on-air presence garnered respect from peers in the television industry. Finch’s achievements highlighted her dedication to delivering accurate and engaging weather information to viewers.
Influence within the Meteorology Community
Finch’s impact extended beyond the newsroom. As a member of the American Meteorological Society, she contributed to advancing the field of meteorology. Her ability to explain complex weather phenomena in accessible terms helped educate the public about meteorological concepts. Finch’s work inspired aspiring meteorologists, particularly young women entering the field.
She actively mentored newcomers and shared her knowledge with colleagues. Her commitment to scientific accuracy and clear communication set a high standard for weather reporting. Finch’s legacy lives on through the professionals she influenced and the viewers she informed over her 16-year career at CBS New York.
Public Response
The news of Elise Finch’s unexpected passing sent shockwaves through the community. Fans and colleagues alike took to social media to express their grief and share memories.
Facebook was flooded with heartfelt tributes. Many viewers posted about Finch’s warm on-screen presence and how she had become a familiar face in their homes over the years.
CBS aired a special broadcast tribute, highlighting Finch’s 16-year career at the network. Colleagues shared anecdotes and praised her professionalism, sense of humor, and dedication to meteorology.
Loved ones, including Finch’s sister Kiya Finch-Roberts, spoke about her devotion to family. They emphasized her role as a mother and her plans for her daughter Grace’s future.
Fans organized memorial gatherings and created online forums to celebrate Finch’s life and work. Many shared how her weather forecasts had impacted their daily routines and decision-making.
The meteorological community also paid respects, recognizing Finch’s contributions to the field. Fellow weathercasters from various networks acknowledged her expertise and friendly demeanor.
Local New York organizations remembered Finch’s community involvement. They cited her participation in charity events and her efforts to make weather information accessible to all.
Elise Finch’s Untimely Departure
Elise Finch, a beloved CBS New York meteorologist, passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2023, at the age of 51. Her sudden death shocked colleagues and viewers alike, leaving many questions unanswered.
Announcement and Reaction
CBS New York announced Finch’s passing with deep sorrow. The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow journalists and viewers. Lonnie Quinn, chief weathercaster at WCBS, praised Finch’s exceptional skills both in front of the green screen and during field reporting.
Colleagues highlighted her professionalism and sense of humor. The station aired a broadcast tribute to honor her memory and contributions to meteorology. Friends and coworkers expressed disbelief at the suddenness of her death, emphasizing the impact she had made in their lives and on the viewers she served.
Survived By
Elise Finch leaves behind a loving family. She is survived by her husband and their daughter Grace. The family held a wake on July 24, 2023, where Finch’s sister Kiya spoke, offering a glimpse into their personal loss.
A celebration of life ceremony took place on July 25, 2023, at the Macedonia Baptist Church in Mount Vernon, New York. The service was livestreamed, allowing those who couldn’t attend in person to pay their respects.
Finch’s CBS affiliate colleagues attended the funeral, further demonstrating the close-knit relationship she had fostered within the broadcasting community. The exact cause of Finch’s death was not publicly disclosed, respecting the family’s privacy during their time of grief.