CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Longtime radio voice Jim Lago died Wednesday night.
The conservative host reportedly had been suffering health issues, former mayor Joe McComb confirmed to 3NEWS.
Lago retired from radio at the end of 2019, after suffering a stroke and undergoing heart surgery earlier that year.
He was a mainstay on local airwaves for more than 30 years, working locally as a DJ for Z-95 at the beginning of his tenure. He transitioned to talk radio at Z-95's sister station 1440 KEYS, and retired from 1360 KKTX.
His radio career began at KLUE in Longview, and he later moved to Beaumont and Houston. He was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame in 2016.
In fact, Nueces County Sheriff J.C. Hooper recalls a moment with the Lago that he will never forget.
"One thing that I was reminded of in that time with Troy Riggs. He had a little plaque on his desk, and it had two words on it. 'Let's talk,' and that's one thing you have brought to this community, let's talk," he said.
There were plenty of social media posts as people remembered Lago. Everyone from his daughter, to those who have known or worked with him over the years expressed their condolences and remembrances.
Former Corpus Christi Mayor Joe McComb was a frequent guest on the Lago in The Morning Show.
"You never had to worry about where he stood on an issue," he said. "I mean he was very candid. Very honest. You may or may not agree with his opinion, but he did mind telling you and that was part of the fun of it."
Some people like attorney and former city councilman Mike Hummel knew Lago well. He was first interviewed by Lago back in the 80's -- and the two eventually became good friends.
"He really really did a wonderful job on the radio and I don't think it's duplicated. I don't think it can be. He was really focused heavily on local issues and local people," he said.
This is a developing story. Check back with 3NEWS and kiiitv.com for updates.