Doug Eason & Keith Frye Have Passed

We’re sorry to hear about the passing of two legends in the black radio industry that have passed. Doug Eason and Keith Frye.

Doug Eason: After working as a broadcast specialist for the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service, Doug Eason made his mark in commercial radio in a career that spanned over 40 years. The majority of those years were spent in St. Louis radio, where Eason was remembered by his listeners as a gentle-voiced disc jockey and strong presence in his community. However, the man affectionately known to his co-workers as “The Leprechaun” also worked as VP/GM of KATZ and WESL. His degree from SIU Carbondale opened doors for him later in his life. While teaching full-time and mentoring high school students, Doug Eason also hosted a daily show on WGNU.

A message from Keith’s daughter Falonda: It is with heavy hearts that the Frye Family has to announce the passing of a Legend Mr. Keith Frye.  He was a wonderful Dad, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, and let us not forget one of the best Promotional Directors there was.  Please pray for our family as we grieve and prepare to lay our Dad to rest.  We will keep everyone posted after arrangements have been made.

Todd Kris Frye: Falonda bless you and Todd for stepping up when we lost Ms Martha. I’m so glad you were able to spend the last year making sure “Daddy” was fine. He was and always will be my precious “Fryeman”! He was the best Promotion Director ever! Steps favorite last words for Keith were, “Keith is my American Express Card! You don’t leave home without it!!” I’ll miss my monthly check-ins and I’m so blessed and thankful I had one last moment to touch his heart with my last phone call the day before he was called home. I’m glad he’s resting in power now. He lived a good life and did the damn thing!! Keith, you have half the Music Industry waiting on you and I know you’ll be received with open arms when Martha greets you! You did a great job, we will always love you!  Rest now…peacefully!•In God’s name I pray•

Deedee on Facebook shares her Keith Frye story: There is a huge party going on in heaven right now because Keith Frye Pappa Smoove just walked through. George Howard is playing the Theme from Shaft on his Sax. The food and drinks are flowing and Martha and your Mama are right there by your side. Thank you for all the love, care and knowledge you poured into me. Most of all thank you for loving and protecting me all these years. The lessons I’ve learned from being your assistant live with me forever. I will ALWAYS LOVE YOU Papa Smoove. My condolences to your family, which is my family too. Falonda Frye-Jackson Todd Kris Frye Troy, David Frye Keith Frye Jr. Dennis Frye I send love, healing and support during our time of grieving and CELEBRATING the beautiful life of a KING.