I was saddened to hear the news that my former morning show partner Jim Ellis has passed away at the age of 48 of an apparent heart attack. Jim and I never saw eye to eye on a lot of things but he was one talented guy. He had the best laugh in the business and I know he influenced a number of people to get into radio. He was a dedicated father and a great instructor of upcoming broadcasters. His picture does him justice, that's how I will remember him. I guess he's the one that's off like a prom dress. I pray for his family. Another one done way too soon. If you are a smoker, please stop now, 48 is way too early to die.
5 comments:
Ellis and Smash always cracked me up, because many Blackfolks thought those two were Black when they came to town.
Jim was easy on the ears and a complete joy to listen to.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends and co-workers. Too much loss in our business in the last year...
Bonnie
I agree with Bonnie. Jim had one of those velvet voices that just made the speaker on your radio buzz. There have been a few in the St. Louis market (Gordon Atkins was another from old KSHE days) that had that kind of voice presence.
Max...
Really sorry to hear of Jims passing. First it was Abby. Now it's Jim -- way too many, way too early.
Jim Ellis was a riot on the air and a nice guy to someone who started at the station as a lowly board op. He frequently gave me sh*t as I worked my way up and got on the air. As the quality of my girlfriends increased he often warned me to stay out of the furniture stores '...because after you pick out the furniture, you'll be shopping at Babies R Us.'
One day, after a bad aircheck meeting with Jim Owen, Ellis caught up to me in the mailroom. He saw I was a little raw and said something that still stays with today. He said, 'Yep, the shine has wore off. That's why they call it work.'
When he came out to play for the charity team I was alway amazed at how hard he could hit the ball.
You won't be forgotten, Jim. RIP
Steve Haas
Did he not give you the hilarious name of "Hit Man"? That's what I remember and Ken was "The Hammer?" Get it touch with me..."hit man", I would love to hear from you.
Sorry to hear about Jim Ellis. He was a voice from my youth that will be missed... and we bid you goodnight.
P.S. hey Randy,were you on The Eagle in Nebraska ?
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