Beloved Broadcaster Paul Harvey Dies at 90

The radio legend, known for his Christian faith and patriotism, passed away in 2009 after over 70 years on the air.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:47am

Paul Harvey, the iconic American radio broadcaster who was beloved for his Christian values and patriotic spirit, has died at the age of 90. Harvey's career spanned over seven decades, during which he became one of the most listened-to voices in the country, particularly among U.S. military members stationed around the world. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1918, Harvey found his calling in radio at a young age and went on to share both the grand and the everyday news with his devoted listeners.

Why it matters

Harvey's passing marks the end of an era for American radio and the loss of a figure who embodied traditional Christian morals and unwavering patriotism. His life story, from overcoming personal tragedy as a child to finding faith and using his platform to uplift listeners, resonated with millions and made him a beloved cultural icon.

The details

After his father, a police officer, was killed in the line of duty when Harvey was just 3 years old, the future broadcaster was introduced to the Presbyterian faith by his family. His exceptional speaking skills were honed from a young age, leading to his first radio job at just 14 years old. Harvey's Christian faith deepened in his late teens after he was befriended by Mennonite Christians in Salina, Kansas, who introduced him to the Bible verse John 3:16. Though he was briefly in the Army Air Corps during World War II, an injury led to his honorable discharge in 1944. Harvey went on to marry his wife 'Angel' in 1940, and the two worked together in broadcasting for decades until her death in 2008. In 1971, Harvey rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized, after which he more openly shared his faith with listeners.

  • Paul Harvey was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1918.
  • Harvey began his radio career at age 14 in local Tulsa stations.
  • Harvey served briefly in the Army Air Corps during World War II, but was discharged in 1944 due to an injury.
  • Harvey married his wife 'Angel' in 1940, and they worked together in broadcasting for 68 years until her death in 2008.
  • In 1971, Harvey rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized.

The players

Paul Harvey

An iconic American radio broadcaster who was beloved for his Christian faith and patriotic spirit, and had a career spanning over 70 years.

Lynn 'Angel' Cooper Harvey

Paul Harvey's wife of 68 years, who worked as his producer at ABC News.

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What they’re saying

“The birds are awake while the morning is still asleep so the sun can come up to music.”

— Paul Harvey

The takeaway

Paul Harvey's life and career embodied the traditional American values of Christian faith and patriotism that resonated with millions of listeners over his seven-decade radio tenure. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy as one of the most beloved broadcasters in history will endure.