ARDMORE – The community is mourning the loss of a long-time radio personality. Friends and loved ones are preparing funeral arrangements for 78-year-old Robert Boykin - known to everyone as Bob Boykin. Shelby Levins reports.

Friends and close colleagues say Boykin began his radio career in the late 50's, and worked until 2002. Those who knew Boykin's voice on the air waves, say it's his wit they'll remember most, and tell us local radio has lost an icon. It seems everyone who met Boykin has a fond memory of him to share.

For almost half a century, a studio like this at the Southern Oklahoma Radio Center was filled with a different sound -- Bob Boykin's voice. Former colleagues like Terry Bell say Boykin was extremely intelligent and creative. Bell says Boykin took his job seriously, yet always found time to brighten other people’s day.

"He was always so much fun to work with. He knew different languages too. He used to leave messages in Chinese in the men's room on the toilet paper. I know that sounds weird, but he did!"

Boykin got his start on air at KVSO. He saw the station ownership change hands multiple times, and witnessed technologies revolutionize things. But loyal listeners say Boykin never skipped a beat, or missed a day on the air waves.

"He was just very positive about everything. Kept people laughing from his wit,” explained D. Allen Wint.

Wint is a former local restaurant owner, who also remembers Boykin as more than just a radio voice. Wint says Boykin was a regular Saturday breakfast diner, and tells us the man never once got behind the wheel, but he even touched the life of one of his regular cab drivers.

"They've lost a good person, well actually a great person. What you'd probably call an angel,” said former cab driver Edward Glover.

Boykin was found dead in his home earlier this week, after neighbors tell us they asked law enforcement to check on him.

Friends tell us Boykin doesn't have family left, but he was loved by all those who worked with him, and his memory will live on.

"Bob was really a unique individual. He broke the mold. They'll only be one Bob Boykin just like there was only one Elvis"

Craddock Funeral Home tells us services for Bob Boykin are scheduled for Friday at 10 am in their memorial chapel.