The IRIE FM family and the wider media fraternity have been plunged into mourning following the death of one of IRIE FM’s founding members, Walter Bob Clarke. 

Mr. Clarke, who was awarded the Order of Distinction in 2018 for decades of contribution to Jamaican media, passed away early this morning.

He was 75.

Bob Clarke was a part of IRIE FM’s early management team and hosted the popular Sunday afternoon programme ‘Memories’, until he left the company in 2020.

That was Bob Clarke ending his programme on Sunday, January 27, 2019.

He continued in media after leaving the station and worked at RIDDIM FM.

Speaking to IRIE FM News this morning, Acting Managing Director of IRIE FM Brian Schmidt offered condolences to Clarke’s family and noted that he was pivotal to the creation of IRIE FM. 

Mr. Schmidt said he was loved throughout the company and by IRIE FM listeners. 

Bob Clarke’s son Courick said his father’s death has rocked the family.

He described the veteran broadcaster as a great man who touched the lives of many.

Meantime, Entertainment and Culture Minister Olivia Grange says next week, Parliament will pay tribute to Bob Clarke and other pioneers who passed away recently.

She was speaking in the Lower House this afternoon.