Lisa McKay passed away on early Sunday morning just two days after taking a leave of absence from her duties as Curtis Media VP/Programming and Program Director/Afternoon Host at Country 94.7 WQDR Raleigh after a brief bout with cancer.

McKay had been with WQDR since 2002 and later rose to Station Manager in 2010 and Vice President of Programming for the company in 2014. Prior to coming to Raleigh, she spent nearly twelve years at CHR “Q94” 94.5 WRVQ Richmond VA starting as midday host and then moving up to Music Director and then Program Director in 1992.

Curtis Media President Trip Savery released a statement on behalf of the company: “It is with very heavy hearts that we share the news of Lisa’s passing. She had a tremendous and positive impact on so many people’s lives and careers, and will be greatly missed by all of us. Please send your love, support and prayers to Lisa and her family.”

Curtis Media is asking anyone wishing to honor McKay to do so by donating to a local animal shelter on her behalf. They have also setup a page where they will share upcoming service information and to leave messages for her family. She is survived by her partner Bill Campbell.

Original Report 1/12: Lisa McKay is taking an indefinite leave of absence from her duties as Curtis Media VP/Programming and Program Director/Afternoon Host at Country 94.7 WQDR Raleigh for a personal health issue.

Telling listeners that she will off while fighting cancer, the station has added a page for well-wishers to leave a message for her.

Curtis Media Group VP/Radio, and Country WQDR-FM Program Director, Lisa McKay is taking an indefinite leave of absence to address a health issue, effective immediately.

CMG President/COO Trip Savery commented, “Please keep Lisa in your thoughts and prayers as she battles illness. Lisa and her family ask for your respect and consideration of her privacy as she focuses on her health.”

McKay commented, “I am grateful beyond belief for the opportunity given to me by Curtis Media Group, and I know this team will continue to excel.”

WQDR has posted a prayer wall for Lisa on their website: http://www.947QDR.com, where friends, listeners and colleagues can post prayers and words of encouragement for Lisa.

McKay has led WQDR to recognition as the Country Music Association (CMA) large market station of the year three times — in 2011, 2014 and 2017 — as well as the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Large Market Station of the Year in 2009 and 2011. WQDR was also recognized as large market station of the year by the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters in 2014.