R.I.P.: David Anderson, Longtime Austin Radio Personality

David Anderson (1951-2024)

David Anderson, a longtime Austin radio personality who specialized in news and sports, died of cancer Tuesday at Gracy Woods Nursing Center. He was 73. according to The Austin American-Statesman.

Besides appearing on radio and television for more than 40 years, Anderson served frequently as an emcee at parades, banquets and charity events.

"He was so much of a great humanitarian," said Michele Golden, who met Anderson while she was interning at KOKE FM. They remained friends for 40 years. "He helped people with their careers, jobs and any way he could in life over the years. He donated his time to so many organizations. He had such a huge heart and will be greatly missed by so many people." 

Born Jan. 15, 1951, he graduated in 1973 with a degree in radio, television and film from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches.

Anderson was recruited to deliver the morning news on air in Austin during the late 1970s. Bob Cole, owner and morning host of the revived KOKE FM, said hiring Anderson for that role was one of his proudest moments.

Over the years, Anderson worked at station after station as they changed ownerships, formats and personality lineups. One of his last jobs was at Sun Radio.

One of the high points of Anderson's career was KEY 103's "Morning Show," which he hosted with Jarrott and Cathy Conley Swofford from 1983 to 1991.

"He was an extremely talented writer and a naturally funny guy," Swofford said. "David Anderson was the tallest member of the team, but never short on talent, wit and humility. He loved to volunteer for Austin nonprofits. He was especially fond of chili cook-offs, beauty pageants and Austin's annual Spamarama."