AUGUSTA, Ga. – The Central Savannah River Area is mourning the passing of a radio icon. Harley Drew, a cherished figure on Augusta’s airwaves, passed away on Thursday at the age of 82.

Drew’s voice and name have been synonymous with radio across the region for decades. His colleagues fondly remember his warmth and humor, which left a significant mark both on the airwaves and in personal interactions.

Mary Liz Nolan, who shared the microphone with Drew for over 20 years, reflects on the profound influence he had on her life, describing him as not only a mentor but also a steadfast supporter.

“He was incredibly kind to me and always had my back,” Nolan shared.

“I believe he was one of my greatest cheerleaders throughout our time together. I feel deeply grateful for the more than two decades I had the privilege of working alongside Harley,” she added.

Nolan says “Handsome Harley” was known for his warm voice and sense of humor. He often shared stories with children about his work in broadcasting and how his fascination with radio began at a young age.

Austin Rhodes, host at WGAC, says that childhood love for radio never faded.

“Harley was a big fan of radio as a child, and he used to stay up late at night and listen to distant stations on his AM radio,” Rhodes said.

“Matter of fact, he had to hide that radio from his own parents because they would literally come in the middle of the night and find him listening.”

Drew began his radio career as a teenager with WBRO in Waynesboro. Later in his career, he joined WBBQ. He then became National Program Director for the Arrow Communications Group, the owners of WZNY before becoming Beasley Broadcast Group’s operations director for WGAC, WGOR, and WRDW.

That lifelong dedication to the radio earned Drew numerous honors. He was the proud recipient of the Louis Harris Award, one of the highest honors in Augusta media. He was also recognized in 2009 for more than 50 years in broadcasting. In 2011, he was inducted into the Georgia Radio Hall of Fame.

Both Rhodes and Nolan say they plan to keep his legacy alive by continuing to do what he loved most: sharing their voices with the community.