AMERICAN radio icon Wanda Smith has tragically died just a day after celebrating her 58th birthday.
Tributes have started to pour in for the Atlanta broadcasting legend with her being described as “someone who always made us smile”.
Atlanta’s V-103 radio’s senior Vice President Rick Caffey lead the touching messages for Smith as he announced her death.
He said: “Our hearts are weighing heavier today as we grieve the loss of our beloved Wanda Smith.
“Someone who always made us smile and who was a big part of V-103 for years.
“We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to her family.
“In her role at V-103, dating back to 2006, Wanda Smith brought so much joy and care servicing the Atlanta community.”
Her cause of death is yet to be reported.
Smith was married to fellow star LaMorris Sellers and the couple shared three children.
Caffey continued: “Wanda’s impact touched lives beyond making us laugh.
“Many times she championed efforts behind the scenes to make a difference in the lives of those who were without.
“Rest In Peace Wanda, as you take your place among the stars. We will miss you.”
Her career started as the co-host of the Frank and Wanda in the Morning show back in 1998.
She spent two decades working with Frank Ski as she quickly became one of Atlanta’s most recognisable voices.
Wanda Smith brought so much joy and care servicing the Atlanta community. Wanda’s impact touched lives beyond making us laugh
statement from Smith’s radio station V-103
Outside of the radio scene, Smith also starred as a popular comedian.
The Miami native was a writer on the hit TV series Def Comedy Jam as well as Comicview, Fox 5 Atlanta reports.
She also had a weekly set at the Atlanta Comedy Theater.
Despite being known for her iconic voice, Wanda also appeared in several film roles such as Madea Goes to Jail and The Drone that Saved Christmas.
Actress and comedian Loni Love labelled Smith as the “ultimate entertainer”.
She wrote online: “I am sad to hear about the passing of comedian and radio host Wanda Smith.
“She was a staple in the Atlanta area and we came up in comedy together. She was the ultimate entertainer.”
V-103 announced they will be honoring Smith throughout Sunday morning.
The hit station released a statement saying: “During Sunday Morning Praise with Larry Tinsley, we will be taking time out to pay tribute to this V-103 icon.
“Wanda Smith brought so much joy and care servicing the Atlanta community. Wanda’s impact touched lives beyond making us laugh.
“Many times she championed efforts behind the scenes to make a difference in the lives of those who were without.”
