WESU mourns the loss of "Rockabilly Willy"

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It brings us great sadness to inform you that our good friend Rockabilly Willy (William Myron Holden) has passed away. Willy was a community volunteer DJ who brought an unparalleled level of enthusiasm to the WESU airwaves for the music and era he loved so much (1957-1962 to be specific).  It is an understatement to say that Willy made lasting impression on both listeners and fellow WESU staff. 
Who can forget his musical gems from the “treasure chest”, special dedications, and super-cool greaser lingo (“Man oh man – Smoke a Roytan”)? Willy bravely walked the walk and talked the talk as long as he could manage and was surely “The Real McCoy”. He was also a veteran who was proud of his service.  He had been off air for the last couple of years as he battled a number of health challenges.  Hopefully all of you “cool cats and dungaree dolls” who remember Rockabilly Willy will keep him in your thoughts.
A graveside military service will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011, at the State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown.
  The Willy’s family has graciously asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to WESU in memory of Rockabilly Willy.
‘Happy Trails’ Willy…. Rest in Peace.

Published by wesugm

3 Replies to “WESU mourns the loss of "Rockabilly Willy"”

  1. Rockabilly Willy was a bigger influence on my radio show than anybody else by a longshot. He may not have had the cultural significance or listening radius of Wolfman Jack, Huey Meaux, Mad Daddy etc, but he’s the one I was proud to have known and I think his show could stand toe to toe with any of them. He’ll be in my thoughts every time I raise my microphone pot for my surf show. Not as good as having him hang out in the chair behind me like at WESU, but it’ll do.

    I opened up my Halloween show with a quick tribute. A lil’ rough around the edges, but maybe that’s only appropriate.
    http://www.divshare.com/download/16087071-560

  3. Willy, it’s well over a year later and we still miss you & think of you.
    You’ll never be forgotten. The airwaves were more fun cuz of you, brother.
    Peace always 🙂

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