Al Smith, who led KMJ as its General Manager for 15 years, has died at the age of 86, the station has confirmed.
A New Orleans native, Smith spent more than 60 years in the broadcasting industry, including the 15 years he spent with the Cumulus Media Fresno news/talk station. He departed the radio station to serve as the CEO of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, where he worked for a decade before retiring in 2016.
“I loved Al. I began working with him in ’87 and have spent my career in radio cherishing every minute I have had with him,” said current KMJ General Manager Patt Hixson, who succeeded Smith in the role. “He was a great friend and mentor. So many great memories…this is crushing news for all of us. Especially his beautiful family who he loved and cherished so deeply. The sadness is overwhelming.”
“Al was a born leader and a good time was to be had by all and he would darn well make sure of it! You knew as soon as you met the man that he was special,” added host Ray Appleton. “Dear God, this one hurts”.
Even after his exit from the station, Al Smith served as the voice of the “Legends & Legacies” feature on the station. KMJ labeled Smith “one of the more prominent figures” in the station’s 102-year history in a statement announcing his death.
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