Remembering Jill Tracey: A South Florida Radio Icon Passes On
The South Florida radio community has lost one of its most beloved and iconic personalities this Friday, November 1. Jill Tracey Folmar, known for her presence and voice on HOT 105 Florida, has passed away at the age of 60.
A Career Spanning Decades
Tracey, a native of Detroit, began her career in the early 1990s in the Miami market, making her mark at the Cox Media Group cluster. She quickly became a staple in the Miami radio scene, starting with publicity work and South Beach gossip columns. Her gradual ascension included co-hosting mornings at WHQT from 1997 to 1998, and a six-year run at Hip Hop “99 Jamz” WEDR from 1998 to 2004.
Crossing paths with different radio stations in her career, Tracey also ventured to Los Angeles where she became a part of the reality show “Starting Over” and worked at Jazz 88.1 KKJZ. In 2006, she returned to Miami and established her own content company, producing audio and video features including “Love, Life and the 411” for WHQT.
Following her impactful return to HOT 105 in 2014 as News Director, Tracey hosted local inserts on Tom Joyner’s and Rickey Smiley’s morning shows. Her Sunday night show, “Hot Talk with Jill Tracey”, became a favorite community affairs segment for listeners. Her dynamic personality and deep-seated passion for issues affecting the African-American community resonated with her audience.
A Community Voice and Leader
A former president of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) South Florida chapter, Tracey was running for a seat on the Hollywood FL City Commission for District 2 at the time of her passing. Her dedication to serving her community was palpable in her advocacy for racial equality, social justice, and mental health. Tracey was also deeply involved in the Miami arts and media scene, mentoring aspiring broadcasters and journalists and championing Black culture and representation.
Legacy and Impact
The Cox Media Group released a poignant statement describing Tracey’s impact:
"It is with heavy hearts that we remember Jill Tracey, a remarkable voice in Miami radio and a beloved figure at HOT 105 FM. South Florida has lost a true radio icon and community voice… Beyond her radio presence, Jill was active in local community organizations, frequently attending charity events, fundraisers, and panel discussions that supported underrepresented voices and promoted positive change."
Her family also remembered Jill as a colleague and friend:
"Her commitment to public service was evident in her recent candidacy. [Though] facing health challenges in recent times, Jill’s resilience and determination never wavered… Jill Tracey was more than a colleague; she was a beloved member of the South Florida community, known for her warmth, humor, and unwavering support for others."
An Unforgettable Voice
Jill Tracey’s passing has left a profound void in the South Florida radio and community landscape, yet her legacy utterly permeates it. Her voice, her insights, and her unapologetic authenticity will be dearly missed, though her impact will live on through the countless lives she touched. Rest in peace, Jill Tracey; your spirit will continue to light the way for future journalists and community leaders.