By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Union City, Tenn.—It’s been an emotional day today at our radio stations as our long-time General Manager Terry Hailey is retiring today.
Hailey, who is a legend in radio in West Tennessee and beyond, broadcast his last morning show with his on-air partner David Robey this morning and hosted his last Swap Shop at noon today.
Hailey was surprised this morning by the appearance of present and former staff who crowded around his microphone to watch and take photos at his last morning show. He also was surprised by numerous audio clips that were aired from present and former DJs and others congratulating Hailey on his lengthy career and retirement.
“I appreciate very much all the folks who showed up today and who have called and sent messages,” Hailey said. “I’ve always loved the radio business and wanted to be part of it. I’ve really enjoyed bringing in so many young folks and seeing their successes in life over the years. We have quite an alumni association here.”
Hailey said, “I don’t know what (if anything) is next, but I look forward to spending a lot more time with my boat and with Mitzi and the kids.”
“I have always tried to provide information and entertainment to the people across West Tennesssee from Obion County, to Henry County and across to Stewart and Houston counties too. “
Hailey is 68 has been in the radio business for 50 years, 49 of which have been with the WENK/WTPR family of stations.
For years, he has worn many professional hats, serving as mayor of Union City since 1988, former president of the Union City Jaycees, Union City Rotary, and Tennessee Association of Broadcasters. He serves on the board of directors of Discovery Park of America, Obion County Fair Association, Union City Industrial Development Corp. and Paris Landing State Park. Before becoming mayor, he was on city council from 1984-87.
He also has been organist at the First United Methodist Church in Union City since 1987.
A Troy native, he taught English/History at Obion Central High School from 1971-74 while working nights at the radio station. He taught speech at UT Martin from 1987-2016 and teaches classes at TCAP in Paris.
As for his radio career, he worked at WTRO/WASL, Dyersburg from 1967-68, afterwhich he worked at WENK and acquired WWKF (KF99) in 1982; WTPR/WAKQ in 1989; WTPR FM in 1994; was named Vice President/General Manger in 1975 and President/General Manager from 1978-2016. He became Vice President/General Manager of Forever Communications NWTN in 2017.
Hailey and Mitzi are the parents of Chad (wife Christy), Nashville; Travis (husband Lonnie), Nashville; Bret (wife Chelsea), Chattanooga, and grandson Sawyer.
Photo: Terry Hailey on his last morning show with his on-air partner David Robey today. (Brent Hinson photo).
Hailey Tributes From Friends
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