Long-time local radio personality Doug James died Thursday after a brief illness.

James’ death was announced Monday morning on WQXK-FM (K105), where he had worked since 1989. He began co-hosting the country music station’s morning show with MaryAnn Graff in 1991.

Bill Kelly, vice president and market manager of Cumulus Media in Youngstown, said in a statement, “Doug loved all of K-Country and was passionate about the music, the artists, the listeners and our community and was a devout supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.

“He believed helping our community of listeners was as important as having them listen daily. Doug set the standard for morning radio in the Valley. He will be profoundly missed by all of us at Cumulus Youngstown. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and his many friends.”

James, 71, was a graduate of Springfield High School and an alumnus of Youngstown State University.

Ken Bigley, COO for JAC Live and JAC Management, said James was an important voice in supporting live music in the area.

“He truly was a perennial presence in Youngstown radio that started our days for decades,” Bigley said. “He fiercely supported live country music in the area. It’s due to that support we’ve been able to bring in many top country acts. In a world where so much is syndicated and nationalized, Doug was our local country voice, and mornings won’t be the same.”

Ken Haidaris of Sunrise Entertainment agreed. James would do live broadcasts from the Warren Community Amphitheatre when River Rock at the Amp featured country artists, and Hadaris described him as a great guy with whom he enjoyed working.

“I’d go to the station and he was just so welcoming, he and MaryAnn both,” Haidaris said. “He was just a fabulous person.”