June 10, 2025

Local Radio Legend TJ Phillips Passes Away

News Summary

Charleston mourns the loss of renowned radio personality TJ Phillips, who passed away at 66. A beloved figure in local broadcasting, his three-decade career significantly impacted the radio landscape and the community. Phillips was the co-host of the acclaimed ‘TJ & Jessica Morning Show’, and his contributions extended beyond radio through charitable involvement, earning him various accolades. As the city reflects on his legacy, friends and fans remember his infectious personality and community spirit.

Charleston – Renowned radio personality TJ Phillips has passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on June 8, 2025. His death was confirmed by Charleston Media Solutions, which reflects the profound impact Phillips had on the local radio landscape throughout more than three decades of service in the industry.

Phillips was particularly known for co-hosting the popular TJ & Jessica Morning Show on 92.5 Kickin’ Country, a role he held since 2016 alongside co-host Jessica Chandler. The show was well-loved by fans and recognized as the South Carolina Broadcasters Radio Show of the Year, illustrating Phillips’ talent and dedication to radio broadcasting.

Before his tenure at Kickin’ Country, Phillips had a significant career at iHeartMedia’s 103.5 WEZL, where he served as program director and morning host from 1991 to 1998 and again from 2001 to 2016. His radio career began earlier as a morning host for Rock WQUT in Johnson City, Tennessee, and as general manager for Roberts Radio in Colorado and New Mexico.

Phillips’ contributions extended beyond simply being a voice on the airwaves. He was inducted into the Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame, acknowledging his substantial influence on the local music community. Over the years, he earned multiple accolades, including titles for Best Radio Personality and Best Local Radio Show from the Charleston City Paper and Mount Pleasant Magazine. His expertise in audio production also garnered him a total of 16 Addy Awards for his work in audio, feature production, and copywriting.

Outside of radio, Phillips was a multifaceted individual who embraced life as a husband, father, veteran, animal lover, music enthusiast, painter, and photographer. His passions led him to actively support various charitable organizations, including the Charleston Animal Society and the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. By lending his voice and influence, he contributed significantly to the community and its well-being.

The news of Phillips’ passing resonates deeply within the Charleston community, which recently experienced the loss of another local radio figure, Mike Edwards, from Mix 95.9’s morning show “2 Girls and a Guy.” The void left by Phillips is notable, and he will be greatly missed by friends, fans, and fellow broadcasters alike.

Paul O’Malley, president of Charleston Media Solutions, recognized Phillips not only for his immense talent as a broadcaster, but also for the friendships he forged throughout his career. Phillips’ legacy is one of joy, creativity, and community engagement, which will be remembered by many who had the pleasure to listen to him or meet him over the years.

As Charleston reflects on the contributions of TJ Phillips, his impact on the airwaves and the broader community remains a testament to his enduring legacy. His infectious personality, dedication to his craft, and commitment to philanthropy have left a lasting mark on the Lowcountry region.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.