Longtime Miami personality John ‘Footy’ Kross has passed away at the age of 77.
Kross spent 32 years in mornings at CHR “Y100” WHYI-FM from 1974 until 2006 through multiple iterations of the station’s morning show. Early on he served as sportscaster for the shows hosted by Bill Tanner and Jim Reihle and later Sonny Fox and Ron Hersey. He would move up to co-host with Bobby Mitchell in 1987 and then Tina Malave and Jade Alexander for “Footy & Chix At Six” from 1998 to 2001 followed by a run with Kenny Walker from 2001 to 2006. He would retire from the station in May 2006 when WHYI added Elvis Duran’s syndicated show in mornings. Kross would later spend some time hosting weekend shows at Talk 610 WIOD and Sports 560 WQAM and 940 WINZ along with a brief run in late-mornings at WIOD.
He also ran local charity “Here’s Help” for over fifty years. The organization released the following statement:
John served as the CEO of Here’s Help for more than 50 years, dedicating his life to helping others and shaping the mission and growth of our organization in profound and lasting ways. Beyond his leadership at Here’s Help, John was one of South Florida’s most recognizable and beloved on-air personalities, known to generations of listeners from WHYI Y-100.7 and WIOD News Radio 610.
John generously used his voice, influence, and passion to raise awareness and funds for those we serve, leaving an enduring impact on our programs, our community, and countless lives. His commitment to service, advocacy, and compassion will never be forgotten.
We extend our deepest condolences to John’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue through the work he helped build.
