It’s the end of a 35-year tradition in central and south Alabama.
Sunday was the last broadcast of "Grand Old Gospel Time" on WLWI radio in Montgomery. Powerful I-92 (FM 92.3) carried the show from 6 to 10 a.m. every Sunday.
Bill Roberts, a professional realtor, part-time DJ and gospel music lover, hosted the program since 1988.
Roberts reacted to the show's cancellation, saying, “Everything comes to an end sooner or later. I want to thank all that have listened over the years. I want to say a special thanks to Doctor Sam (Sam Faulk), who asked me many, many years ago to be the host of the program.”
“I have always hoped that I have put a smile on your face and some joy in your heart," he added. "May God bless and keep you.”
When the news got out, social media lit up with calls for the show to continue, perhaps with another station or online broadcast.
Denise Owens-Edmisten, retired executive of the Alabama Funeral Directors Association, said, “Corporate radio strikes again. After 30-plus years. taking Bill Roberts off Sunday morning Gospel. Shame, shame on you. May God remove his hand from your profits.”
“I’ve grown up listening to Bill. His show has been with me during the hardest times in my life, reminding me that God is always with us. This is beyond sad," she added.
Johnny Harrod, Jr. of Hope Hull stated, “Brother Bill, thank you for all the wonderful years that you gave great music on Sunday morning to listen to on the way to church. I hope God helps with something where you can keep on doing this somewhere else. It means a lot to all of us that are Christians. I can't understand why, but I do know one thing -- God’s got the answer for you, and He’s got an answer for us to keep this great ministry going on.”
“Thank you for the many years of gospel music you have blessed us with," Betty Gray said. "Sunday mornings will not be the same. I listen even when I’m out of town! I have many sweet memories listening to your show with my mother every Sunday. You will be greatly missed! May God bless you and your family!”
Roberts also used the show to promote revivals, Christian events and Christian music concerts. He organized donations and assistance for victims of Hurricane Helene and other disasters.
An announcement is expected from Cumulus Broadcasting on what programming will now take the Sunday morning time slot on WLWI.
Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler writes about Alabama’s people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.
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