Remembering Bobby O’Jay
• We were saddened to learn of the passing of Memphis radio legend Bobby O’Jay, longtime PD and morning personality on iHeartMedia’s WDIA 1070-AM “The Heart & Soul Of Memphis,” who died Tuesday morning, May 3 at the age of 68.
WDIA midday personality Bev Johnson confirmed to local CBS affiliate WREG-TV, that O’Jay passed away while he was at work. His cause of death is still unconfirmed. WREG also spoke to O’Jay’s niece, Wanda Thomas, who said the family is in shock. “We’re doing as well as can be expected,” Thomas said. “We just listened to him this morning, you know, and he sounded like the picture of health. It’s a process.”
In a tweet, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland said, “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. My wife Melyne and I offer condolences to his family, to his radio family at iHeart, and his loyal fans. I know his legacy will continue through WDIA.”
Originally from Batesville, Mississippi, O’Jay got his radio start in Montgomery, AL and went on to work in Milwaukee, Houston, Dallas and Chicago before landing his dream job at WDIA/Memphis in February 1983, where he has ably served as Program Director and host of Bobby O’Jay’s Fun Morning Show, weekdays from 6-10am. O’Jay was formally inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in July 2021.
