Jill Tracy, a beloved South Florida media personality, has died at age 60.

Jill Tracy, a beloved media personality most recently known for her work at HOT 105 FM Miami, died Friday at age 60.

Tracy, a popular voice on South Florida radio for more than three decades, was also running for the Hollywood City Commission in District 2 at the time of her death. She previously served as president of the South Florida chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), where she advocated for diversity in journalism .

Most recently, Tracey spent over a decade on HOT105, where she played various roles. She served as news director and co-host of The Rickey Smiley Morning Show on weekdays and also hosted her own program, Hot Talk with Jill Tracy, on Sunday nights at 11:00 p.m.

She was suddenly dismissed from the radio station in June, citing financial problems.

Although Tracy was born in Detroit, her career began in South Beach as a gossip columnist. Various subsequent jobs took her across the country, but she eventually returned to Miami.

Tracy subsequently left her mark on the community she has come to know and love throughout her long career. She worked as a trainer for Urgent, Inc., a community development organization dedicated to empowering youth to transform their communities through media.

“It is with heavy hearts that we remember Jill Tracy, a remarkable voice on Miami radio and a beloved figure on HOT 105 FM,” the station said in a statement. posted on my website. “South Florida has lost a true radio icon and community voice.

“For years, Jill Tracy has graced the airwaves with her dynamic personality, insightful commentary and passion for serving her community. She is known not only for her work as a radio host, but also as a public figure. Jill’s influence extended far beyond the walls of the studio.”

“Her voice, her laugh and her wisdom will be missed, but her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched,” station officials said. “HOT 105 and the Miami community have lost a true trailblazer—a woman of grace, insight, unapologetic sincerity and undeniable talent. Rest in peace, Jill Tracy; your impact will be felt for generations to come.”

The statement published on the website contains statement from the Tracy family.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jill Tracy on November 1, 2024,” the statement said. “Jill, a former Hot 105 personality and dedicated candidate for Hollywood City Commission District 2, will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

“As we remember Jill, we celebrate her contributions, her spirit and the laughter she brought to our lives. She will always have a special place in our hearts,” Tracey’s family added.

Andrea Mercado, Executive Director Florida SunriseThe state’s progressive political group described Tracy as “a champion for justice on every block, consistently using her platform to educate the public and find solutions to the problems of our time.”

“Her innate ability to connect culture and politics, build bridges and bring joy will be sorely missed,” said Mercado, whose organization supported Tracy in her race for a Hollywood commission.

“Jill literally was the voice of so many people here in South Florida that it was easy for our members to support her desire to pursue a different form of public service,” said Florida Rise senior policy adviser Dwight Bullard, a former Democratic Party member. Florida House of Representatives: “There is a void in our community because of her absence.”

Tracy gave time and donations to various organizations, including the Embrace Girls Foundation, YWCA Miami, Sisters in Service of the NFL, the NABJ chapter she led, and the Heritage Tourism Alliance.

“Jill Tracy was more than a colleague; she was a beloved member of the South Florida community, known for her warmth, humor and unwavering support of others,” the statement said. GoFundMe which was installed in her honor. “Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those she touched throughout her life.”

The page notes that Tracy faced health problems before her death, although her “resilience and determination never wavered,” the page says.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been completed.

This story was produced by The Miami Times, one of the nation’s oldest Black-owned newspapers, as part of a content-sharing partnership with the WLRN newsroom. Read more at miamitimesonline.com.

WLRN News staff contributed to this story.