A forefather of WKDZ and the original Barkley Lake Broadcasting Company, Cerulean’s Willie “Wilburn” Wilson had three things by his bedside before he died early Thursday morning at 95 years old.
His faith. His family. And an AM/FM radio tuned into the station he helped launch in Cadiz, way back in 1966.
Bridgett Linton Perrin, his granddaughter, called it a precious moment she will never forget.
So dedicated was he to the craft of radio and journalism, Perrin said her “Gran Gran” worked for 5 Star Media Group up until he was 92 years old — learning through her and an “Idiots Guide to iPhones” how to record commercials and E-mail them to a secretary.
She called Wilson “Godly,” “amazing” and “perfect.” Someone who “loved everyone,” and was always willing to do anything for anyone.
In 2016, Wilson appeared on WKDZ’s Alan & Allen Early Morning Show alongside former inaugural Barkley Lake Broadcasting stockholder Virginia Alexander, all for celebrations tied to the station’s 50th birthday.
There, he opened up two hours of conversation with a story about his return from the 1971 Kentucky High School Boys Basketball tournament — the same year WKDZ-FM went on the air — and his team’s commitment to local coverage.
Two years ago, Wilson visited with WKDZ again for its 57th birthday, sharing words about the station’s humble beginnings — which got a big day-one lift from former Trigg County High School Principal Tom Vinson.
Among the many things Wilson was known for throughout his career: his weekly elementary school visits, his play-by-play sports commentary, his signature blend of warmth, humor, and community spirit, his lifelong membership to Cerulean Baptist Church, where he served as deacon, former chairman, taught Sunday School and helped as a song leader with banjo and piano skills, and his heartfelt cards and letters celebrating the milestones of others.
The Life and Legacy of Wilburn “Willie” Wilson
March 13, 1930 — Wilson Is Born
Willie arrived in Cerulean, Kentucky, as the youngest son of late Robert E. and Verdya Shanks Wilson.
1947 – Graduation and Early Education
Wilburn Wilson graduated from Trigg County High School after attending schools in Cerulean, his hometown in Trigg County.
Late 1940s – Electronics Training in Chicago
Wilson studied electronics at DeForrest Electronics in Chicago, earning his First Class Radio Telephone Operator’s License.
1950 – Radio Career Begins
He returned to Princeton, Kentucky, and began his radio career at WPKY, now a sister station for WKDZ and the News Edge Media Group.
1951 – Military Service
Wilson enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving as a First Class Electronic Technician. He continued his education in radio during his service.
Post-Navy – Return to WPKY as “Uncle Willie”
After his discharge, he returned to WPKY as the popular morning personality “Uncle Willie,” becoming a household name in Princeton.
May 23, 1954 — Marriage
Willie married his sweetheart, Jo Ann Campbell, a loving partnership that lasted nearly 71 years. They raised twin daughters, Donna and Deborah, with devotion and joy.
Mid-1960s – Vision for a Local Radio Station
Wilson and his brother Leo pursued their dream of owning a radio station, beginning the application process for a license in western Kentucky.
1966 – WKDZ Comes to Life
On April 8, 1966, Wilson received word that the FCC approved the license for WKDZ AM 1110. That same day, he launched the station from its new facility on Will Jackson Road near Cadiz. The first broadcast featured the Trigg County High School Band’s rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner and Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made for Walking.”
1966–1990s – A Daily Voice for Trigg County
For decades, Wilson informed and entertained Trigg County residents with a beloved morning show featuring songs like “The Red, Red Robin” and “How Much Is That Doggie in the Window.” With colleagues like Ruth Humphries and Rodney Cheatham, he became a trusted community voice.
Later Years – Continued Community Service
Even after WKDZ was sold, Wilson remained active in local affairs. He served as a deacon and pianist at Cerulean Baptist Church and was known for sending personal notes of encouragement and sympathy to friends and neighbors.
Broadcasting Legacy – Statewide Recognition
Wilson and his brother Leo were inducted into the Kentucky Broadcasters Hall of Fame for their pioneering work in local radio. Willie was part of the 2006 class.
2020 – Spirit of Trigg County Award
The Trigg County Chamber of Commerce honored Wilson with the Spirit of Trigg County Award, recognizing a lifetime of service.
2022 — Spirit of Trigg County Award
In June 2022, Wilson was overcome with joy when Paula Flood announced him as the winner again for “Spirit of Trigg County” at the Trigg County Chamber of Commerce annual dinner. Then 92 years old, he naturally moved to the front of the room and took the microphone — profusely thanking the crowd while stating “everyone has a gift to give.”
March 13, 2025 — A Milestone Birthday
Unable to leave home as frequently, Wilson’s family still had a birthday parade for him. Locals decorated cars and brought balloons, traveling from East Cadiz Baptist Church and passing by his 151 Sunset Circle residence.
May 15, 2025 — His Death
Surrounded by friends and family and in the comfort of his own home, Wilson’s faithful watch on Cadiz, its surrounding communities and his loved ones ended at 5:08 AM Thursday.
