JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If you haven’t heard, Tom Wills, the longtime lead anchor of News4JAX, is retiring after nearly 50 years behind the desk.
MORE: Stories celebrating Tom’s 49 years at WJXT
Wills’ career began in Washington, D.C., and he has been part of the Graham Media Group family for 60 years. Joining WJXT in 1975, Wills has been a cornerstone of Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia news, covering major events like the 9/11 attacks, space shuttle disasters, and the birth of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
News4JAX asked community members to share memories and messages ahead of his retirement.
Related: Tom Wills to say goodbye to News4JAX anchor desk, hello to retirement after 49 years
“Well, you can just always depend on what he’s saying,” Francis Taylor, a longtime viewer, said. “He was always there. He seemed to be a very courteous, kind man, a pleasant person. I just I just liked him. Feel comfortable watching him. And that was the only news channel I watched forever.”
Another Jacksonville native spoke about Tom’s character and his contributions to the community.
🎥: Share a video/photo with Tom on SnapJAX using the “Messages 4 for Tom Wills” Channel
“Over the years, you know, he has contributed a lot of amazing things to a lot of amazing stories for the community, Micah Windham, former chef of River City Brewing Company, said. “I wish him a very fun retirement, you know, trips and vacations and time away from the channel... I wish him very well. And, you know, his contribution to the community has been fantastic.”
Wills’ last broadcast will be on May 31. His career began in Washington, D.C., and he has been part of the Graham Media family for 60 years.
We want you to share your kind messages with Tom. Upload a video or photo on SnapJAX using the “Messages 4 Tom Wills” channel.
To hear more community responses, click the play button above.
Carianne Luter
This is a photo from the Channel 4 Toy Drive on November 29, 2018. Tom is always volunteering and putting others first. ❤️