WUCF FM 89.9 Jazz & More will air a tribute to its long-time Jazz On The Beach host Jack Simpson on Saturday, September 26 at noon. Jack, who had recently celebrated his 96th birthday on September 12, passed away on Sunday, September 20. WUCF's special tribute to Jack Simpson will include listener memories and stories of the Central Florida Jazz icon as well as some of the best of moments of Jack's Jazz On The Beach program on 89.9 Jazz & More.
“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 Director of Radio. “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.”
Jack's Jazz on the Beach show was first aired by a Brevard radio station in 1967 and has been heard on WUCF since 1983. The show includes swing, bebop, and vocal jazz by small groups and big bands, and can currently be heard in rebroadcasts on Saturdays from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m.
"Our hearts go out to Jack’s family and friends during this time,” said Dr. Phil Hoffman, WUCF Executive Director. “Jack was a legend not only in the Central Florida Jazz community but across the world. He will be sincerely missed.”
Jack was predeceased by his long-time love and wife of 60+ years, Lorraine, who died in June 2020. He is survived by his four children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and legions of fans and friends all over the world.
Currently, arrangements are being made to celebrate Jack's life, and WUCF FM will keep listeners informed on any public services.
