The Illinois broadcater was recognized by NAB for being the individual broadcaster who helped raise the most money for the NAB Political Action Committee.
TV, Radio Station Owner Russ Withers Dies
W. Russell “Russ” Withers Jr., founder and owner of Withers Broadcasting Companies, which owns six television stations and 30 radio stations, died Jan. 24 at his home in Mount Vernon, Ill. He was 76.
For many years, Withers was recognized by NAB for being the individual broadcaster who helped raise the most money for the NAB Political Action Committee. He counted among his friends the late Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens and former FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.
His daughter, Dana Withers, currently serves on the NAB Radio board of directors.
NAB spokesman Dennis Wharton said in a statement:”Russ Withers was a true original. He was a stalwart in defense of local broadcasting, colorful with a quote and comfortable in the halls of Congress and at the FCC advocating on NAB’s behalf. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter Dana and the entire Withers Broadcasting family.”
Hughey Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon is handling the arrangements. The visitation will be held Monday, Jan. 27, at the funeral home from 5 to 8 p.m. and the funeral will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. Both will be open to the public.
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