Condolences: Bloomington’s Joe Smith
• Sad news for thousands of sports fans in the Bloomington, IN area, as ST Radio announced the passing of legendary longtime sportscaster Joe Smith from WWZN (98-7 The Zone)/Bloomington, who has died at the age of 78. Smith is pictured here being honored several years ago during an Indiana basketball game.
The news of Smith’s passing was shared with staffers in a memo from Brad Holtz, President of ST Radio, which reads, in part, “‘Legendary’ doesn’t begin to describe Joe or his body of work. With nearly 50 years of service to Sarkes Tarzian, Inc. and 40 to Indiana University, Joe established himself as one of Indiana’s most respected and trustworthy broadcasters. Joe was named Indiana Sportscaster of the Year in 1998, followed by inductions into the Indiana Sportswriters/Sportscasters Hall of Fame (2003) and Monroe County Sportscaster Hall of Fame (2021). He championed student athletes at the high school and collegiate level and approached his craft with a dedication to excellence that was simply second to none.
“Most importantly, Joe was a dedicated father to his children Jeff and Jamie, and to his six grandchildren, Jayden, Kaleb, Logan, Ethan, Emerson, and Carolina. He was a friend to many. And as a colleague, you couldn’t ask for a more professional, dedicated broadcaster. He inspired us to be our very best. There will never be another Joe Smith.”
In closing, Holtz added, “I will share details on arrangements as soon as they have been finalized. In the meantime, please say a prayer for Joe’s family and friends. May God bless Joe Smith.”
