R.I.P.: Wes Bennett, Southern Illinois Radio Personality

Wes Bennett

Longtime southern Illinois radio host Wes Bennett has died. Bennett has been a radio personality for over 30 years, known for his morning show "Wakin' Up with Wes." He worked for W3D for nearly 30 years and spent time working for WDBX, WQRL, WXLT, and WCBR in Arlington Heights, among other media work.

WSIL-TV reports the family announced Friday afternoon Bennett passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

Talk Station WGGH in Marion, IL issued a statement on his death saying, "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Wes Bennett. He passed surrounded by his family and friends, and we know he is at peace. No arrangements have been made yet - We will keep you posted. We will be keeping Wes close to us with his voice doing our morning The Pledge of Allegiance."

Bennett was suffering from end stage liver failure, which required several trips to St. Louis hospitals and numerous medical bills. The family had set up a GoFundMe account to help with medical expenses. Click here to donate.