WTPR’s John Lashlee Inducted Into Radio Hall Of Fame

 
Murfreesboro, Tenn.—Former WTPR Radio Personality John Lashlee Jr. was inducted as a 2018 Legacy Selection to the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame over the weekend.
Lashlee died in 2007 after building a career as one of West and Middle Tennessee’s most notable radio and television sportscasters during the 1960s, 70s and early 80s. He was on the original staff of WFWL in Camden, worked at WTPR in the 1950s, moving then to WLAC Radio in Nashville, and later becoming Sports Director for WLAC Channel 5 in Nashville (not WTVF).
Accepting the plaque for Lashlee was his son, John Lashlee III, who now lives in North Carolina. He went on stage to accept the award with his two younger brothers Bart and Sam. Several other Lashlee relatives were at the awards ceremony, which was held in Murfreesboro.
Lashlee was nominated by Bobby and Larry Melton of Camden. Bobby and Larry have long-time radio experience and Bobby is still with WRJB/WFWL in Camden.
Other radio personalities who were inducted with the Legacy Class are Dick Layman, Martin Karant, Jeff Jacoby, Billy Benns and David Earl Hughes.
During the awards ceremony, Oprah Winfrey appeared via video to speak about Clarence Kilcrease, a Career Inductee. Kilcrease gave Winfrey her first job in radio. Kilcrease is still on the air, working at three Nashville stations.
Lashlee was born in Huntingdon and was the son of Senators John and Mildred Lashlee.
John Lashlee, Jr. is best known as one of Middle Tennessee’s most notable radio and television sportscasters during the 1960’s, 70’s and early 80’s. He was the lead sportscaster for WLAC Radio and later television (later to become WTVF) and hosted such shows as the “Coach John Merritt Football Show” and “Channel 5 Outdoors”. Most recognized in Nashville for his position as a sportscaster, John Lashlee was also elected 2 terms as Councilman-At-Large as well as Criminal Court Clerk for Metropolitan Nashville-Davidson County.
Photos:
Top photo, John Lashlee III accepts on behalf of his Dad, photo by Bobby Melton; poster of Lashlee from his WTPR days.