R.I.P.: T J Pillips, Longtime Charleston SC Radio Broadcaster

(1959-2025)

TJ Phillips, a beloved Charleston, South Carolina, radio personality and co-host of “TJ & Jessica in the Morning” on 9WCKN 2.5 Kickin’ Country, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the age of 66.

His death was announced by Charleston Media Solutions, the parent company of his radio station, on June 9, 2025. No specific cause of death was disclosed in the announcements.

Phillips had a distinguished career in radio, starting at age 15 and spanning over three decades in the Charleston area. He co-hosted the morning show with Jessica Chandler on 92.5 Kickin’ Country since November 2016, after previously serving as program director and morning host at iHeartMedia’s 103.5 WEZL from 1991 to 1998 and 2001 to 2016. 

His career covered various music genres, including country, classic rock, alternative, talk, and sports radio, and he served with the American Forces Network in Munich, Germany. Phillips was also a veteran, a dedicated supporter of local charities like the Charleston Animal Society and MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, and a loving husband to his wife, Judy, and father.

Known for his vibrant personality, Phillips was a central figure in Charleston’s radio community, earning induction into the Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame and multiple accolades, including Best Radio Personality by Charleston City Paper and Mount Pleasant Magazine, Best Local Radio Show, and South Carolina Broadcasters Radio Show of the Year. He won 16 Addy Awards for audio production and copywriting. His show with Jessica Chandler was celebrated for its engaging discussions on local news, relationships, and country music.

Paul O’Malley, President of Charleston Media Solutions, described Phillips as “more than a morning DJ,” highlighting his talent, service as a veteran, and commitment to improving others’ lives. Listeners and colleagues expressed profound grief, with hundreds posting tributes on social media, noting his infectious energy and community impact. One listener wrote, “He left such a mark on our community and things will never be the same,” while a colleague called him “one of the sweetest souls” they had met.

Charleston Media Solutions, owned by Saga Communications, operates six of the top radio stations in the Charleston, SC area; R&B WXST-FM, Star 99.7; Hot AC WMXZ-FM, Mix 95.9, country 92.5 Kickin’ Country, Adult Hits 101.7 Chuck FM, Gospel/Christian Heaven 100.1FM and Today’s Hits and Hip Hop WMXZ-HD2 99.3 The Box.