News 12’s Luther Masingill Passes Away at Age 92

William Luther Masingill

1922 – 2014

WDEF News 12 Television is greatly saddened to report the passing of our very own "Luther", who died this morning after a brief illness. He was 92.

Known to many of Chattanoogans simply as "Luther", the iconic Masingill first sat down behind the radio microphone on December 31, 1940. He personally signed on WDEF Television in April of 1954, and over the decades, informed and entertained generations of listeners and viewers alike with a charm and grace unique to him alone.

"Luther" was recognized nationally by his colleagues in the broadcast industry, having received two Marconi Awards, induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame, the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame, and a host of other honors. "Luther" was also the longest running broadcaster in the history of the world, having been on the air – live – during both the Pearl Harbor Attacks in December of 1941, and the terrorist bombings of September 11, 2001.

In his more than 70 years of on – air service to his community, "Luther" never failed to help those in need, be it through finding a lost pet or raising money to help rebuild after a fire.

A proud Veteran of the U.S. Army,"Luther" is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Varnell Masingill, daughter Joanie Masingill Brown, and son Jeff Masingill. He is also survived by his brother Charles, two grandchildren, and the congregation of his beloved Avondale Baptist Church, which he attended his entire life.

Funeral arrangements are pending.