R.I.P.: Pat McNally, Veteran Radio Executive

E. Patrick “Pat” McNally

E. Patrick “Pat” McNally, a respected longtime radio sales executive and station leader whose career spanned major rock radio markets during the format’s peak years, died on Thursday, May 7, 2026, following a series of health issues. He was a Detroit native and Michigan State University alumnus.

McNally spent decades in radio leadership roles, beginning in sales and rising to general manager positions at prominent stations across the country. Colleagues remembered him as a larger-than-life figure, skilled operator, and mentor who built strong teams and lasting industry friendships.

In Detroit, McNally served as General Sales Manager at legendary rocker W4 (WWWW). His tenure overlapped with an iconic airstaff that included Steve Dahl, Howard Stern, J.J. and the Morning Crew, Mark McEwen, and Sky Daniels.

He later served as General Manager of WAVA in Washington, D.C., and WAPP in New York City, both under Doubleday ownership. He then moved west to lead Live 105 (KITS) in San Francisco under Entercom before concluding his broadcasting career with a role in Phoenix. 

McNally eventually retired to Florida.

News of his passing was shared by former colleagues, including salespeople Paula Creager and Christie Tilley, who described him as both a valued leader and a friend.

McNally began his radio journey at Michigan State’s campus radio stations before entering commercial broadcasting. He was active during a transformative era for rock radio in the 1970s through the 1990s, helping guide stations through competitive markets and evolving listener habits,