Tamlin Henry was a beloved WDAS AM/FM Philadelphia icon with an envious radio career that spanned five decades. A popular radio newsman, who was affectionately known as ‘Uncle Tamlin,’ he was highly-respected and recognized for his legendary work in public affairs, mentoring, and community service. When he wasn’t programming, delivering news or masterfully spinning the turntable, he was on the streets helping members of the community with their careers & education.
Tamlin was born in Paris, TX, but grew up in Sacramento, CA. He began his radio career in Sacramento before moving on to a program director position in Seattle, WA and eventually settled down in Philadelphia at WDAS in 1985, where this ultimate showman worked for nearly 15 years holding down duties that included public affairs, news anchor, reporter, talk show host and working with the station’s internship program. With his inexhaustible drive, he also helped to organize WDAS’ annual Unity Day celebration and advocated for Philadelphia’s landmarks including the Uptown Theater and The Dell Music Center (then the Dell East).
Tamlin was known for his smile and energetic personality, helping to organize the WDAS Dream Team, known for competing in local golf tournaments. Although he admitted that he was not a very good golfer, he loved the camaraderie.
Those who worked with Tamlin considered him more like a brother than a colleague. On a trip to Senegal & The Gambia, he spent the night in a hut with a tribe of Senegalese friends he had made while the rest of his group stayed in the luxury hotel. His daring personality was one of the reasons he was so widely loved.
In 2004, Tamlin retired from WDAS and moved to Clinton, NC where he worked at WCLN-TV as an advertising sales representative & hosted a popular gospel music show every Sunday night for eight years. He then worked briefly as the general manager at WBLA Radio in Elizabethtown, North Carolina.
Tamlin Henry died June 8, 2020, at the age of 77. Legends are defined by their work and how it impacts the culture. We remember Tamlin Henry so others don’t forget.
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