Bobby O’Jay, the King of Memphis Radio, died on May 3 at the age of 68. Until today, the cause of death has remained unknown. Bev Johnson, a radio personality, verified the report, saying that O’Jay died while at work. Wanda Thomas, O’Jay’s niece, said that his family is in disbelief. She said,
“We’re doing about as well as could be anticipated. We just listened to him this morning, you know, and he sounded perfectly fine. It’s a procedure.”
Wanda also stated:
“He was our ‘when I grow up, I want to be exactly like him.’ He was our public figure. Our link has undoubtedly been severed. My happy recollections are what will keep us going, what will carry us through this difficult period.”
Bobby O’Jay was regarded as a hero by many in the community.
Joe Louis Jones was Bobby’s true name. In 1972, he made his professional debut in Montgomery, Alabama, and in February 1983, he landed his dream position. He drew millions of listeners by discussing his personal life and issues near to his heart. O’Jay was nominated for induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame. He was one of Memphis’ most recognized radio voices, having spent almost four decades on America’s first black radio station, WDIA.
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Bobby’s radio job enabled him to interview celebrities such as Muhammad Ali, Whitney Houston, Rufus Thomas, Johnny Cochran, and others. In 2015, he was instrumental in WDIA’s induction into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame. WDIA was America’s first radio station that solely broadcast African-American programming. It also gave influence to a large segment of the people that had gone unnoticed until the late 1940s. Tan Town Jamboree, WDIA’s initial radio show, became well-known among listeners. In 1949, A.C. Williams, the station’s first full-time African employee, presented the program.
Twitter users give their respects.
Because of his radio broadcasts, Bobby O’Jay became a household name. When word of his death spread, Twitter was inundated with tributes:
Rest well Bobby O’Jay this city will miss you 💔💔💔
— jowa horn (@jowahorn1) May 3, 2022
I’m very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby O’Jay. I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. pic.twitter.com/DoZ0sl9QNg
— Mayor Jim Strickland (@MayorMemphis) May 3, 2022
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