R.I.P. George Walker of WVA Public Radio

George Walker

George Walker, a longtime host for West Virginia Public Radio, was found dead in his home over the weekend, officials said Monday.

He was 60.

Details of his death are to be determined by an autopsy, said Shawn Patterson, director of communications.

"We learned about it this morning," Patterson said. "He had been off on sick leave. The last time anyone from here talked to him was Thursday evening."  She was not aware of the nature of his illness.

"George was the consummate professional," Scott Finn, executive director told dailymail.com. "His work was always top notch and we relied on him for his expertise. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this time."

James Muhammad, director of radio services, said Walker was an inspiration.

"He was reliable and dedicated," Muhammad said. "Everyone loved him. He had a great sense of humor. He was a calming force. He was an important part of the family here. He was that rare individual in this business who is hard to replace."

Muhammad said Walker could always put a positive spin on things while seasoning tense moments with a bit of humor.

Walker was local host for "All Things Considered," an evening news program on West Virginia Public Radio. He also produced the long-running "Music from the Mountains" with Joe Dobbs until Dobbs retired.

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