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| Doug James (1953-2026) |
Doug James, the longtime morning co-host on Cumulus Media's country station K105 (WQXK-FM) in Youngstown, Ohio, has passed away. The announcement was made on Monday, by his on-air partner of over three decades, MaryAnn Graff. He was 71.
James had been with K105 since 1989, joining the station shortly after its establishment under Cumulus ownership (which acquired it in 2000).
He and Graff formed the "Hometown Morning Show" (also known as Doug & MaryAnn) starting in 1991, making them a staple of local radio in the Mahoning Valley region, including Youngstown, Salem, and surrounding areas in northeast Ohio and western Pennsylvania. The duo was known for their community-focused, engaging style, waking listeners with country music, local news, and personality-driven content.
He and Graff regularly hosted the station's annual Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon, raising significant funds—such as over $145,000 in 2023 and $147,000+ in 2024—for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
These efforts contributed to K105's long-term total of more than $4.5 million for the cause since 1990.The news was reported locally by WKBN, highlighting his enduring presence on the airwaves. Details about the cause of death or funeral arrangements have not been publicly detailed in initial reports. His passing marks the end of a remarkable radio career that spanned more than 35 years at the station, leaving a legacy as a beloved "hometown" voice in Youngstown's country music scene. Condolences go out to his family, friends, co-workers at Cumulus Youngstown, and the many listeners he connected with over the years.