Veteran radio DJ Johnnie Walker, who hosted BBC Radio 2’s Sounds Of The 70s and The Rock Show, has died aged 79.
Earlier this year Walker announced he would retire from radio after 58 years – having been previously diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
At the end of October, he presented his final Sounds Of The 70s show on BBC Radio 2 and hosted his last episode of The Rock Show as he hung up his headphones due to ill health.
Tiggy Walker, Johnnie’s wife, said: “I couldn’t be more proud of Johnnie – how he kept broadcasting almost to the end and with what dignity and grace he coped with his debilitating lung disease.
“He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong, amazing man.
“It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
“And if I may say – what a day to go. He’ll be celebrating New Year’s Eve with a stash of great musicians in heaven. One year on from his last live show.
“God bless that extraordinary husband of mine, who is now in a place of peace.”
Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, called him a “much-loved broadcasting legend” with a “wry sense of humour” and “warm, open style”.
“He loved radio and inspired a generation of presenters, passionately promoting the artists and music he cared about so deeply.”
She added: “The airwaves simply won’t be the same again. He will be very much missed by Radio 2 presenters, staff and listeners alike, and our thoughts are with his wife Tiggy and his children.”
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