WUCF FM to honor late ‘Jazz on the Beach’ host
Will air tribute to Jack Simpson on Saturday at noon
Jack Simpson, WUCF 89.9 FM’s longtime “Jazz on the Beach” host, passed away on Sept. 20. He was 96.
“For those of us who were fortunate to know Jack Simpson, we have lost a dear friend and legend in the Jazz community,” said Kayonne Riley, WUCF FM’s director of radio, in a press release. “Jack leaves behind more than 40 years of Jazz programming that could never be duplicated. There are no words that can express our sadness, but we will celebrate him the best way we know how — through music.”
To honor Simpson, who had worked for the station since 1983, WUCF FM will air a special tribute at noon on Saturday. The program will feature listener memories, stories about the Central Florida jazz icon and
some of his best-of moments with “Jazz on the Beach.”
Simpson’s show first aired on a Brevard radio station in 1967 and has been heard on WUCF since 1983. It includes swing, bebop and vocal jazz by small groups and big bands, and can currently be heard in rebroadcasts from noon until 3 p.m. Saturdays.
“Our hearts go out to Jack’s family and friends during this time,” said Dr. Phil Hoffman, WUCF executive director, in a press release. “Jack was a legend not only in the Central Florida Jazz community but
across the world. He will be sincerely missed.”
Simpson was predeceased by his wife of 60-plus years, Lorraine, who died in June 2020. He is survived by his four children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and fans and friends worldwide.
Arrangements are currently underway to celebrate Simpson’s life, and WUCF FM will keep listeners informed on any public services.