Who was Bruce Williams?
Bruce Williams was an American radio host, entrepreneur, writer and former mayor. He was best known for his nationally syndicated talk show, The Bruce Williams Show, which aired for 29 years from 1981 to 2010. He also wrote six books and a syndicated advice column called Smart Money. He was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 1999 and ranked as the sixth greatest talk show host in radio history by Talkers Magazine.
How did Bruce Williams die?
According to Radio Ink, Williams died on February 9, 2019, at his home near Tampa, Florida, after a brief illness. He was 86 years old. His death was announced by his son, Scott Williams, who said that his father was “a great man who left an indelible mark on the radio industry and on the lives of millions of people who tuned in every night for honest advice, wisdom and humor.”
What was Bruce Williams’ legacy?
Williams was widely admired for his ability to connect with his listeners and offer them practical and personal advice on various topics, such as business, real estate, career, travel and politics. He was also known for his remarkable life story, which included serving in the Air Force during the Korean War, running multiple businesses, surviving a plane crash, and serving as a mayor of Franklin Township, New Jersey.
Williams was a self-made man who started his radio career at the age of 43, after hosting a local show on WCTC in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He then moved to WMCA in New York City, where he caught the attention of NBC executives, who hired him to host a national nightly talk show on NBC Talknet. He quickly gained a loyal following of millions of listeners, who appreciated his warm, welcoming and witty style.
Williams was also a passionate pilot, who flew airplanes for over 50 years. He once said that flying was his “greatest love” and that he felt “free as a bird” in the air. He survived a near-fatal crash in 1982, when he attempted to abort a landing and hit some trees in Princeton, New Jersey. He was critically injured and nearly dead, but he recovered and resumed his show from his hospital room, and later from his home.
Williams retired from his show in 2010, citing health issues and a desire to spend more time with his family. He said that he was grateful for his career and his listeners, and that he hoped to “keep in touch” with them. He signed off his final show by saying, “God bless America, and God bless each and every one of you.”
Bruce Williams was a legend in the radio industry and a friend to millions of people. He will be remembered for his voice, his wisdom, his humor and his courage. He was a true American original, who lived a full and extraordinary life.
