R.I.P.: Chris Jarman, Morning Host At WXMX Memphis

Chris Jarman

The Memphis radio community has lost a legend in the broadcast industry.  WXMX 98.1 FM the Max has announced that Chris Jarman has died at age 50.

98.1 The Max reported on its Facebook page Wednesday morning his death was the result of a “tragic accident.” No other details were given. His passing was announced on the air Wednesday morning on 98.1 The Max by his colleague and morning show co-host Danni Bruns. 

Vice President of Cumulus Media, Morgan Bohannon, said Jarman was taken to Batesville, Arkansas due to the lack of ICU beds in Memphis.

Morgan Bohannon, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Memphis, issue a statement regarding the passing of Chris Jarman, Memphis broadcasting icon and co-host of "Danni and The Jar' morning show on 98.1 The Max/WXMX-FM.

"Chris Jarman, a Memphis broadcasting legend and co-host of “Danni and The Jar” morning show on 98.1 The Max, died shortly after midnight last night at White River Medical Center in Batesville, AR. He was 50 years old. His Cumulus Memphis family is saddened beyond belief by his sudden passing. Jar will be remembered as a kind-hearted soul who gave his best and rarely met a stranger. He had a special connection with many; especially, with his audience and the community we serve. His memory will be long lasting and one we will hold fondly. They simply didn’t come more authentic than Chris Jarman from Jarkansas! 

We will share further details on memorial services when available. In the meantime, Jar's co-host, Danni Bruns and her team are planning an on-air tribute to our beloved co-worker, friend and "one of a kind" Memphis broadcaster. There was only one “Jar in your car” and we’re going to miss him dearly."

Jarman’s uniquely Memphis brand of humor and ease behind the microphone made him a familiar and much revered figure in local media for nearly 30 years, reports The Memphis Commercial-Appeal. 

“Never did I imagine I would have to tell you this, our friend Chris Jarman had a tragic accident and is no longer with us,” an audibly emotional Bruns said. “And, as Chris The Jar would call me his work wife, it’s my responsibility to tell you and ask for your prayers for his family — and that includes his family, the listeners, his friends, his co-workers… Without my partner I can’t do the show right now.”

No cause of death was announced, but Jarman had suffered an accident Monday night, breaking his ankle, and posted about it on social media. 

A native of West Memphis, Arkansas, Jarman had dreams of being a broadcaster since he got his first toy microphone as a child. A drummer in his school marching band, Jarman visited Memphis as a teen and saw his future in the hothouse musical environment of the Bluff City. He moved to Memphis in the late-‘80s and supported himself working security at Graceland and on Beale Street before getting his break in radio.