Key Takeaways
- Rod Sisco, WQSB FM 105.1’s beloved DJ for over 30 years, has passed away unexpectedly, leaving a profound void in North Alabama.
- Beyond radio, Rod was first and foremost a devoted father to Grant, Asia, and Savannah.
- Colleagues, musicians, and friends remember Rod as more than a voice on the radio.
North Alabama is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of the local radio legend, Rod Sisco.
The beloved Afternoon Drive DJ at WQSB FM 105.1 passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy that stretches over three decades and touches countless lives across the region.
WQSB and the Sand Mountain Broadcasting family confirmed the news with a heartfelt tribute:
“Rod’s radio journey began in high school on weekends at our sister station, Power 107.5 FM (WAVU), and continued with WQSB, where his voice became a familiar comfort to thousands of listeners. Rod spent his entire career with Sand Mountain Broadcasting, becoming not just a colleague, but a cherished friend and member of our family. Rest easy, Rod — your voice will forever echo in our hearts. 🎙️🖤”
Via Facebook
A Legacy For Generation
Born and raised in Pleasant Grove, Rod Sisco (1971–2025) dedicated his life to radio, music, and family.
For more than 30 years, his afternoon show on WQSB was the soundtrack of North Alabama, consistently topping ratings and becoming a staple in households and cars throughout the state.
But Rod was more than just a radio personality. In fact, he was a mentor, father, friend, and community pillar.
His children, Grant, Asia, and Savannah, were the pride of his life, and colleagues say his love for them far outweighed even his passion for the radio.
Tributes Pour In
Many colleagues, guests, and friends paid their tribute to honour his soul.
Musician Chad Bearden shared his grief on social media:
“Rod was so gracious to me and always championed me and my music. This is a huge loss to country radio, the community, and everyone who knew him.”
Via Facebook
The tributes from colleagues and friends have been pouring in, painting a vivid picture of a man who was as kind and generous off-air as he was engaging and charismatic on-air.
One longtime colleague wrote:
“What I admired most about Rod had nothing to do with what he did on the radio—it was the love he had for his kids. I’ll miss you, Rod… My heart is broken. You truly were one of the best.”
Via Facebook
Another friend shared how Rod had unknowingly inspired his radio career during a Boy Scout tour of WQSB as a child:
“Rod was the one giving the tour that day, and I was so excited. Years later, I got to work alongside him. Every time I visited after moving on, he’d greet me with a fist bump, a hug, and a ‘hey dawg’. I’ll miss him greatly.”
Via Facebook
One of Rod’s closest coworkers described him as more than just a colleague—he was family:
“He brought us home from school, from work, and to football games. He knew more about music than a jukebox and had the biggest heart. He was Uncle Rotney to my kids, and one of my best friends for 14 years. I’ll miss the random Office quotes and his love for concerts, cookin’, and life.”
Via Facebook
Rod’s musical tastes were as eclectic as his personality. While he built his career in country radio, he believed in the power of all music, once saying:
“There’s great music in all genres—if you’ll give it a chance.”
When not behind the mic, Rod could relax in his favorite recliner or search for the perfect hot dog chili, his signature snack.
Though he may be gone, the sound of his voice and the warmth of his spirit remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him.
As WQSB put it so simply and beautifully: “Rod, your voice will forever echo in our hearts.”
The station will announce funeral arrangements in the coming days.
During this tough time, the community is encouraged to keep Rod’s family, friends, and colleagues in their thoughts.
