Salem Media Group announced the passing of Stuart Epperson, co-founder of Salem Communications (now Salem Media Group), at 86.
Epperson and his brother-in-law Edward Atsinger founded the company in 1986, building a strong presence in Christian and politically conservative News/Talk radio stations and other media assets nationwide.
Epperson was a prominent figure in Christian radio, having served on the board of directors for the National Religious Broadcasters Association. In 2005, Time Magazine acknowledged his influence by listing him among the 25 most influential evangelicals in America. In addition to broadcasting, Epperson was involved in various conservative organizations.
He was a former president and member of the Council for National Policy (CNP) and represented the Republican nominee for North Carolina’s fifth Congressional district in 1984 and 1986.
Epperson earned a Bachelor’s degree in radio/television broadcasting and a Master’s degree in Communications from Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina. He is survived by his wife Nancy, four children – Kristy, Karen, Kathy, and Stuart Jr. – as well as 21 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, two forthcoming great-grandchildren, and his sister Mary Lee King.
Salem Media Group’s Executive Chairman, Ed Atsinger, expressed his grief over the loss of Stuart and took comfort in knowing that Stuart is already receiving his reward for a life well-lived.
Atsinger quoted 2 Timothy 4:7-8 to describe Stuart’s life as one that personified the words of the Apostle Paul: “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
