Dr. William "Bill" Anthony Gay, affectionally known as "The Love Doctor," passed away on August 20th, 2025, leaving behind a profound legacy in American broadcasting. A pioneer in Black radio since the early 1970's, Dr. Gay's career began in Baltimore, where he made history as the first Black Radio Engineer at WCAO AM-FM. He played a crucial role in establishing WHUR 96.3 at Howard University and later became the youngest Black Chief Engineer at WXAP 860 AM when he relocated to Atlanta in 1974, shaping the cultural sound of the community.
With a rich career as a jazz and R&B DJ across various stations, Dr. Gay's voice resonated deeply with audiences. He also dedicated his expertise to public education, serving as an instructor and overseeing technical operations for the Georgia Department of Education. In recent years, he launched an online radio platform, continuing his mission to uplift soul, jazz, and classic R&B.
Dr. Gay's contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the 2015 Best Old School DJ Award and an induction into the National Black Radio Hall of Fame in 2024. He was married to Annie "Candi" Gay and was a proud father of three daughters, carrying forward the legacy of resilience instilled by his family.
Dr. Gay was not just a DJ; he was a cultural historian and a passionate advocate for Black media, with a voice that will forever echo in the hearts of his listeners.
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