Ex. Bello and others write tributes for Gloria Langston, co-founder of radio station WDKX

Evan Bourtis

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ROCHESTER N.Y. (WHEC) — WDKX announced on Saturday that the radio station’s co-founder, Gloria Langston, had died.

County Executive Adam Bello, former Lt. Governor Bob Duffy, and the Rochester Association of Black Journalists are some who shared tributes on social media.

The WDKX made the announcement of Langston’s death on Twitter:

"With heavy hearts we regret to inform you that co-founder of WDKX, Gloria Langston, has passed away," said the statement. "We appreciate your patience love and understanding as we process her transition."

Gloria Langston and her husband, Andrew, co-founded WDKX in 1974, which was the first Black-owned radio station in Rochester. It was also one of the first Black-owned radio stations in New York State. Andrew Langston died in 2010 and former Mayor Lovely Warren named a street in honor of him four years later, "Andrew Langston Way," near Parcel 5.

News10NBC reported that the Langston couple chose their station’s call letters to honor Black historical figures. The ‘D’ stands for Frederick Douglass, the ‘K’ for Martin Luther King Jr., and the ‘X’ for Malcolm X.

The Langston couple struggled with the Federal Communications Commission to get an available FM frequency but finally received one in April of 1974. The station broadcasts on 103.9.

On Twitter, County Ex. Bello said Langston was a trailblazer and an icon in the Rochester community:

"She was a fierce advocate for the people of Rochester and will truly be missed. My deepest condolences to her family and friends".

Bob Duffy, CEO of the Greater Rochester Chamber and former Lt. governor, sent his condolences.

"So sorry for the Langston and WDKX family."

The Rochester Association of Black Journalists wrote on Facebook that Langston and her husband left a lasting legacy in Rochester. After Langston’s husband died, she accepted the Salute to Excellence Award from RABJ on his behalf.

"There are many who fondly remember tuning into the city’s first Black owned radio station and being pleasantly greeted by Mrs. Langston’s voice as she hosted her story time over the airwaves," said the statement. "And of course there were the impactful interviews she held with celebrities, community leaders and others over the years that really have helped set the station apart as caring about Rochester."

Andrew Langston Center For Educational Excellence, an organization that provides mentorship and educational scholarship programs to youth in Rochester, said on Facebook that they honor Gloria Langston’s commitment to the community.

"May the great God be pleased with Gloria Langston CO-founder of WDKX. We honor her service for the Rochester, NY community. May she sail on smoother seas."