Radio icon and legend Jerry ‘The Loverman’ Wade passes away

Indianapolis’ airwaves dimmed Jan. 8 with the passing of radio legend Jerry “The Loverman” Wade. For nearly four decades, Wade’s velvet voice serenaded numerous souls as host of WTLC’s “The Quiet Storm,” weaving a tapestry of smooth grooves and gentle wisdom that became the soundtrack to countless lives.

Regional Vice President and General Manager of Radio One Indianapolis Deon Levingston said Wade was more than “a valuable member of our staff for over 30 years” in a statement Jan. 9. Levingston described Wade as “a cherished friend and an integral part of our Radio One family.”

More than just a disc jockey, Wade was a community cornerstone. His infectious charisma and boundless generosity touched every corner of the city. He was not just spinning records; Wade was intertwining hearts, offering comfort to the lonely, a shoulder to fall on for the heartbroken and a reason to dance for the weary.

The Loverman’s passion for Indianapolis ran deep. He championed local businesses, nurtured aspiring artists and devoted himself to causes close to his heart. His dedication earned him recognition from city institutions.

The news of Jerry’s passing leaves a void in the city’s soul, but his legacy resonates louder than ever. His velvety baritone may be silenced, but the echoes of his kindness, humor and love for life will continue dancing through Indianapolis’ streets.

For many, Jerry was not just “The Loverman”; he was a friend and guiding light.

Related: Share the Love Q&A with Jerry ‘The Loverman’ Wade

“This is a complete shock to the Radio One Family,” WTLC Operation Manager Karen Vaughn said. “Jerry was a friend, a confidant, a brother and the ultimate party starter, and we are working together through our grief to pay tribute to one of the biggest stars our station has ever had the honor to feature.”

Wade painted our city with vibrant hues of compassion and reminded us to dance like nobody’s watching, love like there’s no tomorrow and find joy in the quietest storms.

Jerry “The Loverman” Wade may be gone, but his melody lives on, forever humming in the hearts of his listeners.

“My mother taught me it’s easier to smile than to frown,” Wade said in a 2017 interview with the Indianapolis Recorder regarding his “Smile for Jerry” initiative – a movement designed to provide random acts of kindness throughout the city. “Regardless of what’s going on in my life, I am the guy who smiles. I want to save the world, but I know I can’t save the world. But if I can do something to make someone’s day better, that’s what I’m going to do.”

Rest in peace, Loverman. The city you serenaded will miss you, but your music will play on.

Contact multimedia staff writer Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Email him at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral. For more news courtesy of Noral Parham and the Indianapolis Recorder, click here.