Former Dallas Radio News Anchor Sam Putney Dies at 76

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, September 26, 2024

Sam Putney

Sam Putney, a beloved former Dallas news anchor known for his work at K104 and WBAP, has died following a stroke at the age of 76. Putney was widely recognized for his role on the "Skip Murphy and Company" morning show on K104, a program that enjoyed immense popularity in the Dallas area. In addition to his tenure at K104, Putney also worked as a news anchor at WBAP, establishing himself as a trusted voice in local news.

Putney's family announced his passing earlier this week, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and radio personalities across the Dallas market. Former co-host Nanette Lee expressed the universal appeal of Putney, stating, "I don't care how old you were, what age group, what demo, what audience, everybody loved Sam Putney."

Chris Arnold, another former co-host, fondly remembered Putney's unique blend of news and humor. "He would have, like, a news story and then he would have a funny story," Arnold said in an interview with NBC 5. Lee added, "He really was your uncle, your brother, your cousin... That's our motto, family for life."

Putney was known for his warm, relatable style and his ability to connect with listeners across generations. His legacy in Dallas radio remains significant, particularly from his time on the Skip Murphy and Company morning show, which was a major force in urban radio throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. He is remembered not only for his contributions to broadcasting but also for his ability to bring warmth and personality to the news, making him a cherished figure in the community.