OBIT: Rudy Hubbard, 87, founder of WGYL radio in Vero Beach

Rudy Hubbard, 87, of Vero Beach, passed away May 1, 2010 at the VNA/Hospice House.

He was born Aug. 21, 1922 in Canton, Texas to Bonner and Nettie Teel Hubbard. He had two sisters and a brother that predeceased him.

At the onset of WW II, Rudy joined the U.S. Navy, becoming a fighter pilot and training at Naval Aviation Station in Vero Beach. He was the first pilot to land a plane at night with instruments only at this Naval Station. He was then assigned to the USS Hancock in the Pacific War Theatre.

At the end of WW II Rudy returned to Vero Beach and established several businesses here. He was best known for founding WGYL Radio – “We’re Glad You’re Listening.”

At the time the WGYL FM station was established people didn’t have FM receivers so Rudy had to pass out FM radios so citizens could listen to his station.

He was an active member of the community involved for many years in Lion’s Club, Chamber of Commerce, Sunshine Physical Therapy and was a member of First Baptist Church for over 40 years.

He is survived by his beloved wife Sally Eaton Hubbard of Vero Beach and by his daughter (Kimberly Hubbard) and sons Michael (Kathy), Chris (Anne), Kim (Linda), eleven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his first wife Miriam “Skippy” Hubbard and son Rock Hubbard.

A Celebration of his life will be held at the First Baptist Church on May 6, 2010 at 6 p.m., followed by a reception in the Family Life Center at the First Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Youth Fund, 2206 16th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960; or, the VNA Hospice House of Vero Beach, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Arrangements are by Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home, Vero Beach, Florida. Condolences may be sent through www. seawindsfh.com/obit.php.

Related Articles

Comments are closed.