Jerry Williams - The Dean of Talk Radio

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Memories

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4/18/2008	What a great book... you captured the parts of Jerry that I knew, and illuminated the parts I didn't. Made it easy to love and respect a flawed man (and since I'm a flawed man... gave me hope). I just finished a 40 year career... essentially on the road all over the US. Could never have made it without the company and education provided by Jerry Williams and those who followed him. I heard Boortz when he was doing WRNG in Atlanta, and the whole WWDB gang in PHL. Bob Grant at WOR and WABC, and Rush Limbaugh before he was Rush Limbaugh.. You brought back so many fine memories. Thank you for telling the story, and telling it so artfully. Literally could not put it down. You guys were him. And thank you, and all the other guys behind the scenes who made it possible. My life has been made so much better by your work.	DAVE from GLOUCESTER, MA
3/18/2008	What can be said about the most influential radio talk host who has ever graced the most politicly charged and active audience in the nation.jerry will alway's be remembered for his democratic activisim {small "d"}.It made no difference what your political or social bent was,if you were a bubblehead you were exposed as such and god help those who thought they could put one over on "the peoples governor".From the state budget to the hacks that still foul the air of this wonderful state,he took them all on.Howie Carr and Barbara Anderson as well as others owe their careers to the man who had no fear yet was a fine family man and gentleman.Howie and Barbara have carried the torch well for us since jerry's passing,here's hoping they pass his passion and honesty on to the next "voice of the people" I trust they will....One of jerry's favorite lines,"Fee's and fines are FOREVERRRRRRRRRRRR.god bless him,he is truly missed.	PAUL from GARDNER, MA
3/16/2008	I remember teenage years visiting WMEX all night on weekends and sitting inside after midnight watching Larry Glick & Steve Fredericks. I soon started listening to Jerry and followed a lot of Vietnam discussion through the years though I was in the Army myself from 68 to '71. Jerry brought a lot to the table in discussion, a fearless determination to root out issues like so few do today. Given the state of Boston radio in 2008 of late no talk show host today nor in the last few decades with possibly two exceptions comes even close to Jerry's format and style. The Smith Street, Roxbury matter and King Arthur's stories were a true magnificent piece of radio work. I cant imagine any Boston host today even coming close to what Jerry accomplished. My God, these duds couldn't find their neon shoes in the dark. Thanks for the memories Jerry, you are greatly missed.	JAMES from BOSTON, MA
3/7/2008	I called Jerry more than 20 years ago, trying to convince him that yogurt on his baked potato would be a healthy substitute for sour cream. He was not convinced. That was the one and only time I ever called a talk radio show despite the fact that I am still hooked on talk radio. I think I still have recordings of his show from those years when Steve Sweeney was a regular, appearing as Mayor White from the "SCHITTY" of Boston. His presence, daily, was a distraction through many difficult times in my life. He made me laugh, he made me think, he made me care. I still think of him often.	MARY from EXETER, NH
10/30/2007	Jerry got me hoooked on Dylan Thomas...and I remember driving out to New Braintree from Wakefield to see what the issue was regarding the prison..it was a big deal to travel so far when I was in early twenties....I can still remember the gal back then saying we are going where and cause of a radio show..now that I live in Worcester I am there all the time and I think of Jerry:>) Do the audio\\\'s work for others? I can\\\'t get them to work	PAUL from WORCESTER, MA
10/28/2007	Hello to all of Jerry's family. I only discovered this wonder website this evening. I was one of the first women talk show hosts first on WEEI beginning in 1972, and then on WMEX during the mid-1970s, doing the 10 AM to 2 PM shift. Jerry's show followed mine -- and he was always helpful, courteous and funny! I particularly loved his show business guests and his comedian friends. I don't believe he ever said a cross word to me or gave me the impression that he thought I didn't belong in the business. I last spoke with him in the 1990s on a day in which he had former TV and radio anchorman Ted O'Brien on the show. I had moved on to a position with LoJack Corporation as their Radio Advertising Manager and was doing spot commercials for that company. In the past few years, my husband and I moved to the West Coast -- specifically the Portland, Oregon area. I am 68 years old now, and still volunteer for the PBS station in this area, Oregon Public Broadcasting, where I interview authors and celebrities. Jerry, you will always remain in my memory as a kind and friendly guy. Thanks to your family, I was able to hear your sweet voice tonight, and I hope you are still broadcasting from some studio somewhere -- because we all know performers need an audience, wherever they are! Affectionately, Ellen	ELLEN from BEAVERTON, OR
7/31/2007	The radio shows of Jerry Williams will long be remembered by generations of listeners. I was a loyal listener for all his years in Boston, but I also "had a life". He was a master of knowing what the underlying motives of the callers were. And he took them to task and exposed their true prejudices and hypocrisies. He entered varied topics and generated every emotion from a large spectrum of listeners. Jerry not only did political topics, his comedic shows were hilarious, especially when he had on "guest politicians" who were actors taking stands on ridiculous inane subjects. Jerry may have riled management and Politicians but he hit home with the issues, trying to illicit public response, which probably further riled the officials. He certainly was tenacious on governmental issues, but equally passionate on all the subjects he covered. He had a great variety of topics but it was all "entertainment!" His voice was unique and recognizable. I remember asking my friends "did you hear Jerry yesterday, it was great!". I for one, miss him, the show and the variety of subjects he covered. I hope he "had a dinner" waiting for him wherever he ended up.	RUANE from WALTHAM, MA
7/31/2007	Jerry Williams filled the night air with wit, sarcasm and intelligence. And I loved every minute of his shows. I was raised in Walpole, Massachusetts, and Jerry is the reason I went into broadcasting. I'd hear him talk to callers, and begin asking questions, gently at first, and then just a bit more probing, until...BOOM...the caller admitted hating African-Americans or Jews or the Irish or whatever. Williams was one of the best at interviewing guests as well. Years later, while I was a student at Curry College, I went into downtown Boston with a friend, and went into a Brigham's on Boylston Street and there he was. He was with a young girl...I think it might have been her daughter...and I was in awe. I didn't bother him...and as he left he said "Ready to go home Angela, my Baby Bunny?" His voice, that unmistakable voice rang loud and clear in that shop. And for me, it was like meeting the Ted Williams of broadcasting. Because of Jerry I began work in radio in 1976. My career has taken me from radio, to television, and back to radio for a short time. I hosted a talk show on a 50-thousand watt AM radio station in North Carolina...and for me it was a dream come true. And I was fired after about four months on the air. I learned something. It's a tough job...and damn it...that Williams guy made it sound so easy. Anyway, I continue to work in this business, with not a nickle to my name and no regrets. Broadcasting is one helluva roller-coaster ride, and I've loved it for more than 30 years. Thank you Jerry Williams.	MIKE from MEMPHIS, TN
4/2/2007	Jerry was a bundle of energy and excitement, and was the one undisappointing joyful voice on the radio dial. To miss tuning in any day was to miss the total scoop of the day politically speaking! Jerry was the tireless dean of results oriented citizens advocacy regardless of party linnings or labels. Along with other radio luminaries and iconoclasts like Gene Burns (while in Boston), Howie Carr and Barbabra Anderson, Jerry made living in Boston really absolutely unforgettable!	JAMAS from NEW YORK, NY
4/1/2007	grew up listening to him... remember the Malcolm X interviews..... listened as an adult--- advertised on his program and met him.... a professional and the last of a breed...	JOHN from BOSTON , MA
3/19/2007	A CD of Jerry's times on talk radio would be nice, is there any business that has one for sale to the public? Secondly, an audio clip of Jerry at the time of the Smith Street Roxbury event of police arresting the wrong wanted man, especially troubling since the description did not meet the arrested man's characteristics by a long shot and the subsequent $25M court verdict for the family which Mayor Flynn decided to pay......the audio clip of that time when one of the Boston PD officers, who in a book by Quincy lawyer is seen laughing.....and Jerry calling him to account for the apparent laughter........this was a high moment for Jerry and WRKO.	JAMES from BOSTON, MA
3/7/2007	I was 13 years old in 1958 and living in Arlington, Ma. when my Mother got me hooked on listening to Jerry William. Every night I would take my transistor radio to bed and put it under my pillow to listen to Jerry. Many nights I would stay with him till he went off the air at 1:00 A.M. Needless to say I was tired the next day at school. I can still remember the closing song, "I'll See You In My Dreams", sung by a woman. Listening to Jerry going at it with phone callers became a bit of an addiction for me. In the 1980's I went to a seatbelt rally he and Gene Burns held at Fanuel Hall. Once, while eating at The Stage Deli, which for a short time occupied a spot across the street from the Wang Theater, my wife and I spotted him eating at a table with a young lady across from us. We were tickled pink to see him in person. He had that kind of sway over people. Earlier, in 1967, I even remember taking my then girlfriend, who's now my wife, to sit and watch Jerry at his old WMEX Studio when he was on the air in the late evening, when that was allowed. I continued listening to Jerry often through the years, right up until WRKO took him off the airwaves. I have many fond memories of him. I miss him. Radio isn't what it once was without him.	DAVE from NASHUA, NH
2/24/2007	I got my first radio when I was 15, and used to sneak it under my pillow to listen to The Dean. My earliest memory was Jerry's Second Anniversary show, on WMEX in 1959, and it was great when he returned to Boston on WBZ, and later, WRKO. After almost 50 years of listening others on talk radio, my opinion is no one has ever came close to equalling his talent. The Audio Clips here are such a treasure; thanks for making them available.	HENRI from QUINCY, MA
2/23/2007	I was a heartsick teenager growing up in the 60's in Weyouth, MA. WMEX and Jerry were my late night companions over my new transistor radio (with earphones!) in my bedroom at 1AM. The sign off song was always "I'll see you in my dreams". A great memory, unfaded over these many years. Thanks, Jerry - always - I'll see you in my dreams.	LLOYD from RENO, NV
2/20/2007	Hey all, I'm Jerry's daughter, Eve. I just want to let you all know how much it means to me to know what an impact my father made on people even almost 4 years after his passing. You're right...he was simply the best. Listening to talk radio these days, there's only one person that even comes close to what my father did, and that's Glen Beck. I love his theatrics, wit, passion, and ability to pull you in and make you not want to leave the car until he's done and onto the next subject. Less than a handful of broadcasters can actually do that. Dad was one of them and I'm glad that so many of you think so too. Don't forget to click on the Audio Clips link. There's some really good stuff there that will bring back great memories. If you're an AOL user and you're having trouble downloading the audio, try using use Internet Explorer instead. A little about me, I'm Jerry's eldest and I have been in broadcasting since 1987 when Dad bought WKBR in Manchester, NH. I now go by the name "Taylor Morgan". I recently left radio to produce and host a TV show about dining & entertainment in South Florida which is in conjunction with my website. I own South Florida's most successful dining website which I launched in 2001. Without Dad's help in that venture, it would never have happened. Please log onto my website at www.southfloridadines.com/asp/tv.asp and click on "Meet Your Host". Thank you all for writing. I love reading your comments. And in the immortal words of Jerry Williams... "Good night, good luck, good night T." ("T" was my Mom, Terri)	EVE from WEST PALM BEACH, FL
1/29/2007	I used to listen to Jerry on WBBM Chicago Back in the 60's. This was a turbulant time and I remember a neigborhood in Chicago, I think it was called Cicero was being integrated. Jerry would go out on the streets and interview the people that were demonstrating against it being integrated and the hate that they demonstrated as they were being interviewed. I was about 16 at the time and it made a impression on me.	TOM from RICHMOND HILL, GA
1/13/2007	Chris, from N. Hollywood, CA is a buddy of mine. I,like so many,listened to Jerry surreptitiously in the early years when he was at\\\'MEX. Jerry Williams sold me more books than anyone I know--\\\"A Childs\\\' Christmas...\\\"; \\\"Holocaust\\\" (by Paul Benzaquin, about the Coconut Grove fire); \\\"Anti-intellectualism in American Life\\\"; \\\"Future Shock\\\".Quality material, no? These,of course, as a result of Jerry\\\'s expert interviews with the authors. I only try to emulate his techniques during my own on-air interviews now. I did not try to call in in those days, I was under 21. But I did visit \\\"Bob Lee\\\'s \\\'Islander\\\'\\\" with my girlfriend at the time. It was as great an experience as Jerry had promised during his mouth-watering descriptions of the place for commercials. I wrote a letter describing our wonderful dining experience, but never heard a word from Jerry. Years later, I met a friend who said he had heard Jerry read my letter on the air as a fresh ad for Bob Lee\\\'s! I remember seeing the picture on the front page of the \\\"Record-American\\\", the morning after some upset pol came into 70 Brookline Ave., and punched Jerry in the nose for what Jerry had said about the pol! Overall, Jerry was totally unique, totally classy,extremely well-read, and had the ability to grab and keep the attention of listeners. Remember the times when he dcided not to take calls, and could ad-lib about anything and everything for literally hours at a time? And he kept those tirades, soliloquys, and monologues at a caliber and pace that kept us glued to the radio hour after hour. He was, and will remain, simply the best.	KEVIN from WEYMOUTH, MA
1/11/2007	I think during these days with whats going on in Iraq, it would be so fitting to hear the famous interview jerry did with a vietnam veteran home from the war describing his feelings and experiences there. that interview should be preserved in an archive and played every year.i cal it looking inside the heart of a veteran. God Bless,	RANDY from LIMINGTON, ME
12/22/2006	"Gerree. It's bizaaahrre, Gerree." "...you're calling from where?...everybody's gotta be from somewhere." Gerry was The Gold Standard. And few on the air today can begin to measure up (a possible exception, Air America's Randi Rhodes). A fellow WJIB broadcaster told me his greatest career compliment was he "sounded a little like Jerry." Remember "amateur" comedian Fridays--with such contributors as an Andover young man, Jay Leno? One show had callers imitating Reverend Moon; then Johnny Most. Then..."why not imitate Johnny Most IMitating Reverend Moon?" And it went from there. Jerry came closest to that proverbial status of being "able to read the phone book" and command our attention--with Gerry it was often a Globe editorial at the show's opening. Finally, a sweet memory was Gerry saying goodbye to a fellow broadcaster who was having his last show; "Gene, it's important that you know I love you." Two grown, straight men--real Broadcasters--taking the English language and giving us emotions that linger now over decades.	CHRIS (CHRISTOPHER) from NO. HOLLYWOOD, CA
12/18/2006	I traveled in and around the greater Boston area and back home to NH for most of the 80s and one of the things I enjoyed the most was hearing: "Hello New England, this is Jerry Williams" each day at 2:00. When he first came back to Boston it was six days a week! I'm so glad I found this website and once again saw the names of "Queen Grace," Steve Sweeney, the governors, etc. I loved the digs at King Kevin, Michael the Good, Teddy, and the rest. Mostly, I have felt bad for and wondered about, for years, what ever happened to Paul, who got sacked for the spoof on Kevin White. I am glad to have read his thoughts on this page. I'm also glad to know that he and Jerry were able to maintain their friendship. I remember how upset Jerry sounded when speaking about Paul on the air the next day. Thanks for this trip down memory lane, and Paul, I'm going to try to find out your Email address so I can personally wish you well.	STEVE from SOMERSWORTH, NH
12/15/2006	"This is Jerry Williams, at seven twenty forty eighty ..." Even after all these years the voice of 'The Dean of Talk Radio' still rings in my ears giving out the phone number when he worked on Boston's airwaves at WRKO. He'd often jokingly promote the fictional 'Jerry Williams Storm Door & Window Company' as part of his irascable wit, sarcasm and humor. One of my fondest memories is of an afternoon show, one in which it was apparent from the first he was stressing big time, he labeled the show as "Crank Call Day" ... something which he claimed befell him every year and a half to two years or so and, which prompted him to push the microphone aside and slide the chair he was sitting in away and walk out of the studio (you could hear all this happening live on the air)as the persons working the board placed a commercial or two on prior to his quick return. Oh sure, once or twice he put me in my place as he often did to others - deservedly so - but I still have fond memories of this fine host of the radio dial.	CHARLES from READING, MA
11/21/2006	I would enjoy on occasional fridays Jerry would have the listeners and callers going crazy with the man unofficial characters of Steve Sweeney	PETER from NEW PORT RICHERY, FL
10/12/2006	it was in 1986 in the summertime staying at my grandmothers.working outside by my car radio. i found that there was no good music on the radio and decided to check for the latest news and weather on a.m. usually just for a few minutes then back to music but this time it was 680 a.m. to stay forever... and with jerry, howie, barbara, and guests thats where the dial still sits today thanks to jerry... i was 22 then and 42 now and I owe my desire for knowledge in the world and local events to jerry and company forever grateful, in 1986 jerry gave me new things to talk about with my grandparents and girlfriend etc everyday so thanks for so so much david f. of marlboro ma oct 11 2006	DAVID from MARLBOROUGH, MA
9/20/2006	We all miss Jerry greatly. His voice in these trying times would have been invaluable.	ANTHONY from SPRINGFIELD, MA
8/22/2006	I wish Jerry was alive to see the BIG DIG mess.....He would be having a field day!	MARY BETH from NEWTON, MA
5/27/2006	Does anyone know the theme music Jerry Williams used for years? It was a slow whistling piece.	BILL from SUTTON, MA
1/20/2006	It is a great honor to have the opportunity to say a few words. Like many, I was a college student during the Vietnam War and listened to Jerry on his 8-12PM show prior to Larry Glick. Jerry enlightened me on the foolishness of the war and on so many other issues, like seat belt laws, prisons in New Braintree, Gov Dukakis. I would be a rich man if I had a nickel for every hour I listened to Jerry. I was so happy that Jerry got his last show on WRKO soon before his death. That morning, I happened to be in Boston on business and heard of his passing that morning. I felt like I lost a family member. I recall hearing a replay of this last show which was a love fest from the listeners. Without his knowing, Jerry got to say "goodbye." What he did for generations of listeners, informing, entertaining and stimulating them cannot be underestimated. No one will ever have so much impact on talk adio and Boston radio. We miss you Jerry.	HOWARD from STAMFORD, CT
11/14/2005	Great Website to honor a terrific entertainer and a true american icon. Jerry would be happy to know that even in 2005, his memorable catch phrase of "theyre out there" still holds true.	GIL from FRAMINGHAM, MA, MA
8/8/2005	For years I listened to Jerry while making sales calls in New Hampshire. I even endured the static of RKO when Jerry reappeared after leaving New England. Even as a teenager I used to hear bits of Jerry even though I was more interested in listening to Arnie Ginsburg on WMEX. I loved Jerry because he pulled no punches and always told it like it was. When he got into one of his moods and would cut off one caller after another as soon as they said something that he thoughtr was dumb....it was hilarious. The sex surveys and the way he went after the mayor, Kevin White. I miss Jerry. There was and is noone like him.	PAUL from BERMUDA, BD
6/1/2005	NOW THAT DEEP THROAT HAS BEEN REVEALED, I WOULD GIVE ANYTHING TO HEAR JERRY'S THOUGHTS. JERRY ALSO WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN BRINGING DOWN RICHARD NIXON! THIS WAS CONFIRMED BY JERRY'S NAME APPEARING ON NIXON'S "ENEMIES LIST!" HOW WE MISS JERRY'S WISDOM. REST IN PEACE, BUT WE'LL NEVER FORGET YOU!	JAY from RANDOLPH, MA
2/14/2005	Jerry was radio. I feel fortunate to have heard years of his broadcasts, knowing he was the best of them all. Thank God for Jerry Williams.	JAMES from BOS, MA
12/17/2004	I first heard Jerry on WBBM in Chicago. I would listen in amazement as he discussed the Kennedy conspiracy theories. Later, when I lived n Cambridge, I listened to Jerry, especially the summer of Ted Kennedy's troubles. He use to say a phrase quite often those summers in Boston, and end his shows with the phrase. I think it is appropriate to say it these days, more than ever: "Wake Up America". Jerry Williams, thank you, for entertaining and teaching.	CHUCK from CHICAGO, IL
12/12/2004	I will miss not hearing "A Child's Christmas in Wales" this year. I never heard anyone do as good a job as Jerry Willimas. Does anyone have an audio of it in an emailable format? I miss Jerry. Peace.. phoenix	KEVIN from SCITUATE, MA
12/3/2004	I'm saddened to hear of the passing of Jerry. I first listened to him (under my pillow) as an 11 year old when I lived in Rochester NY via WBZ at night. I learned my geography of Boston thru Jerry and BZ and even got to live there in the early 80's. Jerry helped form my early political views that I've carried with me into adulthood. After moving away, I always looked forward to listening to Jerry on RKO when we vacationed in Maine. The signal was usually very bad, but Jerry was always very entertaining. May God bless his soul.	WES from MONTROSE, IA
8/10/2004	I met Jerry when I was 24 years old, and had a very special friendship with him for over 36 years. He was a very special person in my life and I think about him on a daily basis. I only hope that his 3 daughters and their families are keeping alive his may memories, of which I have many!!!	HARRIET from SHARON, MA
7/26/2004	I had the honor of hearing him just a few times, but what a legacy he leaves behind. He paved his own road to success. He always seemed to encourage the best in the people. And to just plain have fun at what you do. Listening to him, you knew he loved what he did. I have been pursuing my own version of talk radio a pro wrestling talk show called Tap Out on a site in Las Vegas called LVROCKS.COM. People have said, "your nuts" and "wrestling?". But I feel I can make something special of it. Mr. Williams has inspired me to be my own original self. For the road he paved of which so many of us are traveling on, I thank him for all he has done and given to this industry. Shaun O'Mac Daily	SHAUN from LAS VEGAS, NV
5/10/2004	I am Jerrry Williams grandson. It is really great to look at all the people my grandfater touched through the radio. He really was a great man and "One Of A Kind".	BILLY from WELLINGTON, FL
5/1/2004	I remember Jerry from different spots on the dial. It was great when he made his comeback to Boston..."Did you hear me! I'm back!" Great radio. What a colorful guy. The Vietnam vet caller always sticks in my mind." By the way...I would love to buy the cd but can't link to it.	SHANE from LOWELL, MA
3/24/2004	I would like to say that i enjoyed working for Mr. Jerry Williams and his family. Mr.williams was a kind and generous man.and well like by his listeners all over new england.he bought so much enjoyment on his famous talk show program... no wonder he called him " DEAN OF TALK RADIO ".. one of a kind..	FRANCISCO from ROSLINDALE, MA
3/10/2004	I met and worked with Jerry during the summer of 1955. I had just completed my freshman year at Villanova. A year later I left school and became Jerry's producer for his WIBG late nite issues oriented talk show. He was my mentor and taught me a lot over the years. At the same time he often came to me for advice. A wonderful friendship for nearly 50 years.	JOHN from RIDGEWOOD, NJ
2/8/2004	I was a faithful listener to the Dean and was saddened to hear of his passing. I especially loved his shows with guest, Steve Sweeney, and other comedians. Jerry had a wonderful sense of timing, "time-MING!" and intimately knew what listeners did not want, and that was to be BORED. Jerry had a unique way of bringing out of callers whatever it was that they may have been hiding or trying to keep from being obvious. This was particularly true with bigots, closet or otherwise. Jerry was a major influence on me and, likely, countless other broadcasters who could only hope to hold to such principled consistency and dedication to issues, people and radio.	BILL from SHOREHAM, VT
1/22/2004	There will never be another Jerry Williams. JERRY - YOU WERE RIGHT ABOUT THE BIG DIG!! You knew it was going to cost over 10 billion dollars when the state told us it was going to be 3 and a half at the most. To Jerry's daughters, I want to say thank you for lending us your dad all those years. Listening to him and Gene Burns was the equivalent of going to college - I AM NOT KIDDING. Being a 45 year old New Yorker myself, I always wanted to throw a big dinner for ex-New Yorkers, and have Jerry be the guest speaker. He is of my father's generation, and listening to him was like having my father around again. God bless Jerry's memory for all of us who enjoyed him so much.	STEVE from LEOMINSTER, MA
1/10/2004	In 1969 my family moved from California to Hull Ma. Hull was where my parents found a rental for 5 children and three dogs. We grew up without a lot of extra money-but one could always pick up WBZ on the soda machine, the payphones and sometimes we had the often mentioned transister radio under the pillow. I followed national politics thru his show on BZ and later the local concerns on RKO. After I married and moved to Vermont my kids would never understand why I would be so happy to sit in the car and listen to Jerry...it was always special to hear his shows. Later when he simucast with the Holyoke and Westfield radio stations I was very happy during my daily commute from Hampshire County back to Brattleboro Vt. I always wondered what it would be like to meet him in person-and the few times I would see him in public I chose to not interupt him. I admire the love for his daughters that he sometimes would talk about. I hope to be able to experience the same with my children as they grow older (they are teenagers and currently they think I should get out of the business..... God Bless Jerry Williams and God Bless America.	JOSEPH from RAWSONVILLE, VT
1/8/2004	I was intorduced to Jerry through my dad in the early 60's. I remember the first time I fell in love with talk radio: It was watching Jerry sitting at a table with a microphone talking to a small audience - and America. It was pure magic. I was fortunate enough to keep in touch with him through the years because of his friendship with my father which grew into a personal relationship as I got older. I loved sitting in the studio listening to this pro turn a semmingly nothing call into theater. My business is law but my love is talk radio and I had a chance to live out a dream when Jerry recommended me for a fill-in gig at WMEX. It turned into a weekend show and helped my professional career. The man was tough. I would hear, in no particular order, "Speak into the mic"; "Keep quiet and listen"; "Keep doing that and you'll drive me out of the business". All vintage Jerry. He never let me forget that he got me the show and suggested a small percentage of my legal fees would be a nice gesture. He also told me he was proud of the program. I'll miss his wit, the unexpected phone calls kvetching about something but most of all seeing him with my dad talk about wonderful times past.	HARLEY from NEWTON, MA
1/8/2004	Jerry is the man that got me into talk radio. When he used to be on WRKO from 2 to 6 pm in Boston back in the late 1980's, I used to listen to him in my car, while I was on my way to work.(second shift). A great man and a legend, with some great quotes "They're out there" and "Not a bad guy".	ROBERT from MEDFORD, MA
1/6/2004	I am so thankful that my parents brought me up in a house where talk radio was always on. They were fans of Jerry and would tell me stories from his WMEX days. I began listening to Jerry when he did the evening show on WBZ. I learned so much about history and politics from his show as I was coming of age as a young teenager. I can still hear him yelling, "Wake up America!" I also remember how proud he was of being listed in President Nixon's hate list. A very speical part of my listening night would also be when he turned to microphone over to Larry Glick and the banter they would sometimes have. I missed Jerry when he left Boston and was overjoyed when he returned to work at WRKO. His RKO show was differnet than how I remembered the "old" days at WBZ when Jerry was so passionate about national issues. The RKO show dealt more with local and state issues. Jerry was a constant thorn in the sides of so many local officials. I remember all the shows about Kevin White. One day in the early ྌ's I was astonished to hear Jerry say that "His Honor the Mayor" would soon appear on his show. I counted the days to hear the show. I knew having Mayor White on his show was going to be a tremendous show as they detested each other. Finally the day arrived. Jerry opened the show saying that "His Honor the Mayor" was in-studio and began the show. What followed was classic radio that I will never forget. Sure, it sounded like White but he sounded intoxicated or crazy or both! Callers had lined up to speak with the Mayor about serious issues and were answered by inane, bombastic comments. I must admit I thought it was White for a good half hour. Finally, it was apparent that it was an imposter but Jerry kept going with it and irate callers kept asking questions to "His Honor." Of course, the guest was not Kevin White but Steve Sweeney. I can still here the story of Katherine White and the mugger in the common. With Jerry it was never boring be it serious or light-hearted. I forgot about A Child's Christmas in Wales and I'd pick more daisies. I intend to purchase the CD for sure. I came to this site to get information about the dinner. I'd love to attend but cannot take that much money from my family budget. I do hope the dinner is videotaped as I would certainly purchase a copy. Jerry Williams never knew me but I knew him so well. He was a great man and I will always remember him fondly and with great respect.	SHAWN from NEWBURYPORT, MA
1/3/2004	Jerry was my mentor. He taught me to be a muckracker, a rabblerouser. The few times he had me on as a guest he expressed satisfaction in his training, as he heard of my anti-Dukakis Campaign. The last time I saw him was at The Taste of Boston at the Fleet Center. He immediately started talking about the corruption of the Big Dig. Nobody came close to Jerry in clinging to an issue until it bore fruit. Ask Dukakis. There has never been and probably never will be another radio tandem as Jerry Williams and Gene Burns. I gladly drove a long way, wearing my "I'm not a Hack", Jerry Williams T-Shirt, to honor him at his wake. The smile on his daughter’s face when she saw it, said it all. God bless you Jerry	CHARLIE from KINGSTON, NH
1/3/2004	It's been 8 months since my father passed away but I still feel as though he's here somehow....guiding me -- just as he did in life. I want to thank all of the people responsible for getting this website together and working to make the Greatest Moments CD a reality. The Dinner is going to be phenomenal. Thank you to everyone who shared your stories and for keeping my father's memory close to your hearts. At a later time, I'll share some stories of my own. Happy New Year. ~~Eve Williams PS to Charlie from Kingston: I remember that "I am not a Hack" tee shirt at the wake! Thank you for being there.	EVE from WEST PALM BEACH, FL
1/2/2004	When I first met Jerry, it was during what he called a "feeding frenzy" on Beacon Hill during the lame-duck session between outgoing Gov. King and incoming Dukakis. I was weaned on musical political satire from people like Phil Ochs, and had just written and recorded a tune based on Jerry's language entitled "Billy And The Boys". Security was actually tough then around Jerry, and I found myself at Boston's Government Center in the pouring rain on a pay phone with a cassette tape in my hand, looking up at the RKO studio and trying to get through. I got through. From then on, Jerry billed me as "Resident Folk-Singer Satirist" and I enjoyed the company of the likes of Steve Sweeny (for whom I recorded the "Sweeny For Mayor" theme with an actual marching band) and Billy West, who did a great Reagan voice, and a passable Jerry Williams imitation.."I'm getting OUT of the business"! Jerry was a delightful man who ran through the on air hours like a bull on the streets. Having worked with Chris and Alan as his producers.. two vastly different personalities, I learned that Jerry's attitude was simply to look whomever was in front him and say OK... LET's GO!... "Hello, New England...." He is greatly missed.	PAUL from MELROSE, MA
1/1/2004	It was during the 1950's that my father introduced me to non-music radio. During school breaks we would listen to Paul Harvey News. Staying in the Boston area after college my wife and I started listening to "talk radio";specifically to Jerry Williams. Memories range from Vietnam, to Watergate, "The Governors", Cosmo surveys, and the spoofs he periodically had on his Friday shows. The main thing that Jerry stood and fought for was our liberties in our U.S. Constitution. Because of Jerry we are still listening to "talk radio" and Paul Harvey News. Lastly, Jerry helps me cope with the phrase,"they're out there."	PAUL from GEORGETOWN, MA
1/1/2004	I was introduced to Jerry's show when I heard my parents talking about it. I was in high school and began listening on my transistor radio (turned down very low because my parents had told me to go to sleep!). Jerry was my introduction to the world of politics and debate and I will always be grateful to him for that. His humor, his passion, his honesty - these were gifts he gave freely to any who would listen. He was a man of integrity, and although I never had the opportunity to meet him face to face, I thought of him as a friend.	AUSTIN from CONCORD, MA
1/1/2004	In my early 30's I abandoned FM music for AM information. Quickly I latched onto Jerry Williams. I never went back, even though Jerry was unfortunately phased out. I miss him greatly, and never understood how his underling became his sucessor. I guess it was either motivated by politics or compensation. Regardless, the quality of drive-time radio was never the same. I also listened to his last broadcast. Thankfully Jerry was able to say good-bye to those of us who truly loved and appreciated his work over the years.	STEVE from MANSFIELD, MA
12/31/2003	Jerry was part of my radio experience for forty years. I first heard Jerry as a young adolescent in 1961 or ེ after the Arnie Ginsberg Night Train Show on WMEX. Yup, the transistor radio was beneath my pillow. I recall his passion for people being forced out of the old West End. I remember some of the Malcolm X interviews. And of course, Gracie--Queen of the Cockamamies. This was heady stuff for a kid from the suburbs. I also recall Larry Glick following him on WMEX. Later he was gone--off to Chicago. Then at the end of the sixties (when I was finishing high school/starting college)he was back in Boston on WBZ followed by Larry Glick again. I remember the first time I heard the Vietnam veteran's tape. Of course as an undergrad at B.U. I'd already taken part in a number of anti-war marches and building takeovers. I'm not sure if Jerry or I hated RMN more, but Jerry's opposition to the war surely was a factor in Westinghouse's getting rid of him. So for a few years (except for Brudnoy on the old WHDH) talk radio in Boston was sterile. Then Jerry was back on WRKO with the classic line up of Gene Burns, Jerry, and David Brudnoy. The sex survey's never did much for me, although the washing machine lady was wonderful. New Braintree, Prop 2 1/2, seatbelts, the "Governors" show are all memories. Then he was relegated to Saturdays--I missed him. Luckily, I caught the last show just before his death. He was truly unique, and I feel lucky to have listened for so many years.	BOBBY from LYNN, MA
12/26/2003	I fell in love with talk radio while attending college (in Boston) in the late 80's, early 90's. Listening to Rush, Gene Burns, David Brudnoy and (of course) Jerry Williams. Great radio is great theater of the mind and Jerry was a genius at setting the stage, delivering the lines and reeling me in. The first and last time I worked with Jerry, he was in a wheel chair, his pace slowed by time and illness. His personality was clearly in tact. He was every bit the intimidating, curious, thoughtful, brilliant person I listened to years ago. I helped produce his last show on WRKO this past year. At some point during the four hours, he said the calls (WRKO) and continued "WRKO...WRKO..wow...just to say that again." It was magical. I will always feel honored to have been there.	RICHARD from BOSTON, MA
12/26/2003	Here is the editorial I wrote about Jerry's passing. He is so missed. Editorial: The passing of an icon The Winchester Star Wednesday, April 30, 2003 http://www.townonline.com/winchester/news/opinion/win_ediwseditorial04302003.htm Radio will never be the same after the death of The Dean of Talk Radio, Jerry Williams, on Tuesday. For those of you who didn't know Williams, he ruled the Boston airwaves for the better part of four decades and was one of the founders of the talk radio format. At the height of his career, Williams was holding down the afternoon shift at WRKO, informing New England about the issues of the day. He pursued truth and justice for his listeners in a way that drove elected officials to their wits end. Most people believed Williams was a conservative because of his relentless attacks on former-Gov. Mike Dukakis and Democratic hacks on Beacon Hill. But in fact, Williams was a rare political breed - a unique combination of classic liberalism and populism seldom heard these days. He was one of the only talk radio hosts to stand against the Vietnam War or to interview black leaders like Malcolm X. President Richard Nixon had him on his enemies list and consumer advocate Ralph Nader was a regular guest over the years. So were strange callers like Grace, Queen of the Cockamamies, a crazy old lady who would call up and blather about nothing. And who could forget his annual week of sex survey shows during the summer. During the last recession, in 1991, Williams' show was a magnet of activity, as callers laid-off from their jobs freely talked about their frustrations. But as radio stations consolidated, Williams was pushed out of his job. The consultants said it was his age - nearly 70 - when he was bumped from his full-time gig. However, conversational, issue-based talkers were driven out of the business all across the nation, replaced by more "lifestyle" programming; shows that acted more like a mind-numbing distraction then the empowering call to action Williams offered listeners. His last fight was exposing cost overruns on The Big Dig. As it turned out, Williams was right - but very few people were listening. In 1996, The Dean was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame, but he still joked that no one ever held a dinner for him. Sorry Jerry, we never did have that dinner for you. But thank you for everything you did for us.	ANTHONY from CONCORD, NH
12/19/2003	I was privileged to be Jerry's first Executive Producer when he returned to Boston in September of 1981 at WRKO. Jerry was at the top of his game and the program became Number One in the 2 - 6 PM slot instantly. On a day to day basis, Jerry Williams was a complete professional and exceptionally easy to work with. As one show that I produced – Jerry interviewing a person doing an audio caricature of Boston’s mayor at the time - was ending, the General Manager's secretary asked that Jerry and I come down to his office. As soon as I walked in I knew something was radically wrong. The General Manager was spouting that he wasn't going to lose his job for this and fired me for producing the show. To Jerry Williams everlasting credit he stood up and defended me. A few minutes later the General Manager saw me in the corridor as I was leaving and told me to tell Jerry that he "better show up for tomorrow's show or he would never work again." Jerry did what he could to get my job back but it was beyond him or anyone else. They needed a scapegoat and I was it. All this being said, I would not have traded one moment of the time I had producing Jerry Williams Program. I worked with the man who practically invented the medium of Talk Radio. If Milton Berle was considered "Mister Television", Jerry must be considered "Mister Talk Radio". The famous band leader Guy Lombardo who played in the new year for decades in New York City is quoted as saying that he would take New Year's Eve with him when he died. I am afraid Jerry did that with talk radio. He was the best at his craft and no one has been able to match his ability and pure showmanship. We remained friends through good times and bad to the very end and I miss his calls and boundless enthusiasm for the business he loved. At his passing it was if I had lost a member of the family. In fact, I did. May he rest in peace.	PAUL from MILTON, MA
12/17/2003	To listen Jerry on the air was a treat to the ears. To have the opportunity to work with him was a honor. One of the greatest moments in my radio career came on March 1, 2003 when Jerry invited me to join him in the studio as he returned to WRKO for what would be the last time. As I stood there silently in the studio watching him broadcast I knew I was experiencing a one-of-a-kind moment. Here was 'the man' who helped to create 'Talk Radio'. 'The man' who challenged the political elite. 'The man' who spoke with pushed the envelope until it ripped. Jerry... I thank you for all that you meant to radio and for all that you taught me and I'll always remember the words you said to me the first time I ran your board "If you can't be good, be loud". P.S. To Mel in Hopkinton... Thank you for being a great teacher.	JIM from LAWRENCE, MA
12/13/2003	I grew up in the sixties listening late at night, not to rock and roll, but to baseball games and talk shows. Talk radio fascinated me from an early age and no one kept me more entertained than Jerry. I followed him from WBZ to WRKO and places in between. At times I disagreed with his views - strongly. But he always kept my interest and motivated me to think. His greatest asset, in this host's humble opinion, was in interviewing celebs of all kind, making every interview interesting and compelling. And his sense of humor was unmatched. Whether complaining about "never getting that dinner," or getting under a politician's skin in a hurry, Jerry was able to make us all laugh, entertaining us in his inimitable style. During the last few years, I had the great pleasure and honor of meeting with Jerry at his home to conduct archival interviews. Over corned beef sandwiches, we'd sit, eat, schmooze and laugh as Jerry recalled with pinpoint accuracy what each and every guest was like, funny as well as very poignant moments. Jerry Williams was a great story-teller, something we miss nowadays on radio. The "Dean" moved me to pursue a career in this crazy business and I owe him a lot!	JORDAN from BOSTON, MA
12/11/2003	12/11/03 CHECKING THRU MY CAREER MEMORY BOOK I HAVE THOUGHT HOW FORTUNATE I HAVE BEEN IN WORKING AS PROGRAM DIRECTOR WITH SO MANY OF THE FINEST AND TALENTED PEOPLE IN THE INDUSTRY. JERRY WILLIAMS WAS TRULY OUTSTANDING	MEL from HOPKINTON, MA
12/5/2003	I first encountered Jerry as a result of my lengthy commute because I was sick of listening to music stations. What a revelation! As a result of this dynamic and creative man, my husband and I both became "talk radio addicts". We even followed Jerry to New Braintree to protest the building of a prison there. How good it felt to put words into action and to actually DO SOMETHING. That's what Jerry Williams did. He turned us into active thinkers! Because of Jerry, we still enjoy talk radio hosts who have followed in his footsteps every day. Thank you, Jerry Williams. You are missed!!!	JOANNE from HOLDEN, MA
12/4/2003	Jerry and I worked together for three years start- ing in 1958. We appreciated each other's talent and our love of boxer dogs. I played with his dog many times and it led me to owning a terrific boxer. A called once told Jerry she had met me a couple of day's prior and Jerry went on and on for an hour saying wonderful things about me and how Mac Richmond was less than honest with both of us. I remember Jerry with fond, pleasant memories.	DONN from PUNTA GORDA, FL
12/4/2003	I joined WMEX in 1963 and met and heard Jerry for the 1st time. I did The Fenway Show every morning. I had never heard anybody like Jerry before in all my years in radio. He was amazing and really introduced controversial talk radio. I razzed him a bit on my morning show, and that night a caller asdked him.."Did you hear what Fenway said about you this morning?" to which Jedrry promptly replied "Fenweay is a charloten." I have great memories of him yelling at Max Richmond for his check every Friday.	JACK from PALM CITY, FL
12/4/2003	One of my fondest memories of Jerry goes back to 1983, when I first started at WRKO. I was intimidated by being at such a powerful station and working with people like Jerry, David Brudnoy, and Guy Manilla. Jerry stopped me in the hall one day and told me I was going to be OK and just be myself. He said the talk business was really very simple, just be honest and talk about whatever bothered me or made me feel very good. Others would probably feel the same way. Don't be afraid to talk, "That's why they call us talkmasters." ~~~ Moe	MOE from FALL RIVER, MA
12/4/2003	Jerry Williams was as much a part of my life as an uncle or close family member. From listening to him at 12 years old and being inspired to become a talk show host, to meeting him and having him take me under his wing to eventually working with him at various radio stations. Jerry was like a Damon Runyan character. A very unique human being that will never be duplicated. Larger than life. When I listen to the lyrics of "My Way" sung by Sinatra, I think of Jerry. I think of Jerry many times, all the time. I am so lucky to have known him. Dick Syatt	DICK from ,
12/4/2003	I was Jerry's TV producer on Fox and also worked for a short time on his WRKO show. He was a tough man and very difficult at times but someone I admired for his success and determination. "I Gotta get out of this business" Jack Jack Roberts Executive Producer CRN - Los Angeles	JACK from HOLLYWOOD,, CA
12/2/2003	When I met Jerry, the legendary broadcaster, for lunch in 2002, he was so gracious. And so interested in getting back on the air. I offered him the chance to do so in March 2003, as a way to un-do some of the wrong that Jerry had suffered in an industry that he helped build. The day he did what turned out to be his last show, a 4-hour shift on a Saturday afternoon, I was absolutely in awe of his desire to do a great job for his audience..his fans. He had several people with him, as his health was quite fragile. He worried about how he'd do...But when the mic came on, it was magic. He was sharpe, spirited, and gave it his all. His love of radio and the fans he had outweighed the indignity and humiliation he'd endured by his unceremonious dismissal. But to see him struggle to get in and out of the studio, to be so frail yet so professional, was a memory that will always be a motivation when things get a little rough in life. Jerry Williams is deserving of so much priase for proving that talk radio could move the masses..tackle the issues. I am honored to have met him and had the opportunity to witness a great performance by one of the true legends in talk radio.	MICHAEL from BOSTON, MA
12/2/2003	I grew up listening to Jerry on Wmex, then on WBZ, and lastly on WRKO. He never ceased to amaze me, as his daily programs were always fresh and lively. He was always enthusiastic with every topic of discussion, and had a knack of bringing out the best in every call. His conversations with his callers always was interesting, provacative and sometimes quite comical. He was tops in his field, and really was the "dean" of talk radio. He was a natural for the medium, and truly miss his voice from the radio dial. One of my most vivid memories of him was from a WBZ show from about 1968, when we all listened in astonishment to the Vietnam veteran who poured out his heart over what he witnessed in that terrible war. At the end of the call, nothing but silence for a moment, as Jerry, as the rest of the audience was speechless. Other great moments include the famous "sex" surveys on WRKO, and the weekly "meeting of the govenors" each Tuesday, also on WRKO. Jerry has gone to a better place now, and I am sure that he's already sitting in front of a new microphone and broadcasting all over heaven. Thanks Jerry for all the great years in Boston-	BRIAN from MANCHESTER, NH
12/1/2003	I worked with Jerry in Philadelphia and Boston from the late 1970's through the mid 1980's as his producer. I was a kid, he was in the prime of his career. What was most memorable about Jerry to me was his willingness to be a mentor, to bring me into his life rather than to keep me at arm's length which would have been what most people in his position would have done. He was a good guy and a great broadcaster. He will be missed by many fans and friends.	ALAN from MANCHESTER, NH