We have learned that Tom “Cat” Reeder, veteran broadcaster and member of the Country Music Broadcasters Hall of Fame, died earlier today.
Reeder was one of the most celebrated radio personalities in the US, based in the Maryland, Washington, DC area starting in the mid-1950s. At WDON, he was the most popular DJ the Capitol area had ever known. The Cat went from on-air success to station management at WKCW, and eventually to ownership of a pair of stations in North Carolina and Alabama.
Tom was known for his love of traditional country music, and actively resisted the encroachment of modern country on his shows. In semi-retirement, he joined the on-air staff at WAMU’s Bluegrass Country in 2001, and hosted their popular Bluegrass Overnight program, as well as his own Tom “Cat” Reeder Show. His final appearance on WAMU was on June 26.
We will post details about funeral arrangements shortly.
