Gary Burbank, born William Purser on July 29, 1941, in Memphis, Tennessee, was a pioneering American radio personality renowned for his inventive comedy and memorable characters. He passed away on August 28, 2025, at the age of 84, in Louisville, Kentucky, following complications from dementia.
Gary Burbank – Early Life and career
Burbank began his radio journey in the 1960s under the moniker “Bill Williams” at KLPL in Lake Providence, Louisiana. He later adopted the name “Johnny Apollo” during his tenure at KUZN in West Monroe, Louisiana. His early career also included stints at WMPS in Memphis and WWUN in Jackson, Mississippi. In 1968, he joined WAKY in Louisville, Kentucky, where he transitioned from music to political and social humor, marking the beginning of his rise in radio. It was at WAKY that he adopted the name Gary Burbank, inspired by Gary Owens, the announcer for the TV show “Laugh-In”.
Gary Burbank – Career Highlights
Gary Burbank’s career reached its peak at WLW in Cincinnati, which he joined in 1981, where he became a household name through his creation of iconic characters such as Earl Pitts Uhmerikun, a satirical redneck commentator; Gilbert Gnarley, a prank-calling elderly caller; The Right Rev. Deuteronomy Skaggs, an evangelical preacher urging listeners to “dig in them jeans and pull out them greens”; and Howlin’ Blind Muddy Slim, a blues musician featured in a Friday music show. His program, often called “Theater of the Mind,” was celebrated for its improvisational humor and sharp satire, earning national syndication for his characters and segments, and culminating in his induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2012.
Gary Burbank – Personal Life
Gary Burbank was married to Carol, and they resided in Louisville, Kentucky. In addition to his radio career, Burbank was involved in philanthropic efforts, notably founding the nonprofit organization Play It Forward, which supports working, independent musicians in the Tri-State area.
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