A beloved Northeast Georgia radio personality is getting ready to sign off the air for the last time. WCON’s Billy Burrell announced Monday he’s retiring after 71 years on the radio. Burrell’s last program will air Friday, July 1st.
Burrell began his broadcasting career with WLET in Toccoa in 1951. Eight years later, his pre-taped gospel show, Sunshine Melodies, began airing on WCON in Cornelia. In 1965, Burrell joined WCON’s staff as a morning announcer and he’s been at the station ever since. Over the years, his soothing tone, down-home charm, and inspirational spirit have won Burrell legions of fans. His gospel show has also made broadcasting history. It’s the longest-running weekday radio show – hosted by the same person – in North America.
The community respect and loyal fan base Burrell have earned through the years were evident back in 2020. That’s when lawmakers and locals stopped by the station to wish him a happy 90th birthday. Now, at 92, the long-time radio announcer and ordained minister will finally be able to sleep past his 3:30 alarm.
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End of an era
WCON shared the news of Burrell’s retirement in a heartfelt tribute on social media Monday. The station recognized Burrell for the thousands of lives he has impacted, his professionalism, and dedication.
“We can truly say that Billy Burrell is one of the most caring, loyal, and dedicated people we have ever known. His desire to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ is just as strong today as it was the day he signed on the air for the first time,” the post reads.
It goes on to say, “We have had the honor of working alongside Billy for many years, and he can never be replaced. Several generations have gotten up each morning to his ‘wake up call’ and helped him let the animals out as he ‘opened up the barn door,’ and oh what a thrill when he would announce that school had been canceled because of snow!”
“Brother Billy, even though you are leaving us, we know that God still has work for you to do, and we are excited to see how He is going to use you.”
Burrell’s final show will air from 5:30-6 a.m. this coming Friday, July 1, on WCON 99.3FM.
