A beloved radio host in South Carolina died on Sunday, aged 66. TJ Phillips was one half of Charleston, South Carolina’s 92.5 Kickin’ Country morning show. The veteran DJ started working on the radio when he was just 15, and was best known for working alongside Jessica Chandler. Their show, TJ & Jessica in the Morning, played country music every weekday from 5 am to 10 am. According to the radio station’s website, the pair was known for talking about “local news, relationships, country music, parenting fails, and everything in between”. TJ also took up radio spots on Saturdays from 7am to 10am.

Announcing his death, the station stated, “While the word “legend” may be overused today, it does describe TJ Phillips. His Greatest personal achievements were the thousands of people he connected with over his many years on the radio.”

According to the statement, TJ Phillips died peacefully on June 8. Hundreds of loyal listeners paid emotional tributes to him in the comments section.

One user wrote, “I’m heartbroken. I’ve listened to TJ for over 20 years. He’s the voice of reason. He was honest. gave great, unbiased advice. He was kind and very much like a dad that never knew me. Charleston has lost an icon. He is already missed.”

Another also chimed in, “My heart is heavy as I have absolutely no words this morning. He left such a mark on our community and things will never be the same. Thoughts and prayers to TJ’s immediate family and radio family, especially Jessica Chandler.”

A third also commented, “He is one of the sweetest souls I ever had the privilege to meet. He left such a mark on our community and things will never be the same.”

He supported many charities, including the Charleston Animal Society and the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.

The president of Charleston Media Solutions, Paul O’Malley, said, “He was an immensely talented broadcaster, but also a veteran who proudly served his country, a man who constantly tried to make the lives of others better and a friend who will be greatly missed.”