R.I.P.: "Mr. Radio" In Central VA Bob Abbott

Bob Abbott

Bob Abbott died Tuesday.   He was known as "Mr. Radio" in Central Virginia, having worked at various stations for more than 40 years.

He was 65-years-old, according to WDBJ-TV7.

Abbott started his career at WPVR (now WSLC) in Roanoke before getting behind the microphone at WLLL and WGOL in Lynchburg.

In later years he managed a group of stations owned by Centennial Broadcasting.

"For those people who grew up in this area, Bob was the voice of Lynchburg radio," said Mari White, a morning host at WIQO-FM who worked for Abbott during her tenure at WLNI-FM.

"The music (Lynchburg natives) grew up listening to was introduced to them by Bob Abbott and their favorite songs are associated with Bob Abbott's voice," said White.  "I think that's a great legacy."

Veteran broadcaster Sandi Conner recalled working for Abbott for several long tenures during her 36-year radio career.

"He taught me patience, tolerance, love, and understanding," Conner said of Abbott.  "Those are four things you need in life to be successful and he had all four."