Eastern Kentucky broadcaster Walter May dies

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ) – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is among those remembering longtime eastern Kentucky broadcaster and businessman Walter E. May.

May passed away Thursday night at the age of 81.

May was the founder, president and CEO of East Kentucky Broadcasting.

He began his career in broadcasting in the early 1950’s as the first rock and roll disc jockey of WPKE.

May served as president of the Kentucky Broadcasters Association in 1971 and chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters in 1975.

McConnell sent out a statement Friday on May’s passing:

“The Pikeville community lost one of its towering figures with the passing of Walter May. When he began his first broadcast as a rock and roll DJ more than 60 years ago, I doubt anyone could have predicted his lasting impact. Through his nationally-acclaimed radio career, his term as mayor, and his guidance of the Pikeville Medical Center, Walter established an enduring legacy of excellence and service. Elaine and I join those who loved Walter as we honor his decades of transformational leadership and express our sincere condolences to his family and friends.”

Funeral arrangements for May are pending.