South African Broadcast Community Mourns the Loss of Veteran Radio Personality Roi Simpson

The South African radio landscape is draped in a somber mood following the death of one of its long-standing pillars, Roi Simpson. The radio fraternity, colleagues, and countless listeners are reflecting on the life and career of a man who was not only a hallmark in broadcasting but also an esteemed humanitarian and family man.

Roi Simpson's voice became synonymous with quality journalism during his years at Heart FM where he dedicated his career as the news editor. His passing in Cape Town was announced this week, bringing an end to a luminary journey of public service through the airwaves. After a valiant fight with illness, Simpson succumbed in hospital, leaving a void in the hearts of many.

The beginnings of Simpson's radio career can be traced back to the Eastern Cape in Nelson Mandela Bay, at the station formerly known as Radio Algoa. Here, he honed his skills and became a household name, intertwining his life with the rhythms of the bay. Simpson's early days also saw him dominate the club scene of Port Elizabeth as a charismatic DJ.

Alfie Jay, the current managing director of Algoa FM, reflects on the times Simpson ruled the afternoon drive time, ingraining himself into the lives of his listeners with every show he hosted during the 1990s. The move to Cape Town marked a new chapter for Simpson, where his passion for journalism saw him rise to the echelons of News Editor at Heart FM. In this role, he continued to influence the broadcast industry and represented Heart FM on the Commercial Radio Committee of the National Association of Broadcasters.

Roi Simpson's colleagues at Heart FM remember him with great affection and respect. He was not only an exemplary journalist but also a humanitarian who touched lives far beyond the confines of the studio. Outside of his career, Simpson was a devoted husband and father—a facet of his life that endeared him further to those who knew him well.

Tributes have poured in from all corners of the country, with many sharing heartfelt stories of their interactions with Simpson. His influence extended beyond the professional realm, as he was often involved in local community projects and initiatives, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu.

As the nation mourns Roi Simpson, his work and life serve as a beacon for many aspiring broadcasters. His professionalism, dedication to the truth, and warm personality will be the legacy that lives on in the halls of South African radio stations, in the mentorship of young journalists, and in the memories of a grateful audience.

In this time of grief, the South African radio industry has lost more than just another broadcaster; it has lost a friend, a leader, and an icon whose contributions have irrevocably shaped the South African media landscape.