Jim Scott Cincinnati Wife: Get to Know Donna Scott
They were married for 23 years and lived on a 132-acre farm near Lawrenceburg, Indiana, across the road from Perfect North Slopes.
Jim Scott, a legendary radio personality in Cincinnati, passed away on June 30, 2024, at the age of 81 after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Scott was a familiar voice on Cincinnati’s airwaves for 46 years, serving as the morning host for WLW, WSAI-AM, and other local stations.
His warm personality, quick wit, and genuine connection with his listeners made him a beloved figure in the Queen City. Scott’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many Cincinnatians who grew up listening to his voice every morning, and his legacy as a kind, compassionate, and dedicated member of the community will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Meet Donna Scott
Scott’s wife is Donna Scott. They were married for 23 years and lived on a 132-acre farm near Lawrenceburg, Indiana, across the road from Perfect North Slopes. Donna shared the news of Jim’s passing on his Facebook page, stating that he “crossed over and is in the loving, welcoming embrace of his mom and dad, mine, his sister and so many friends” after his battle with ALS. She described Jim’s approach to dealing with the “indignities” of ALS as inspiring and said he never stopped expressing gratitude to his family, friends and fans
A Lifelong Career in Radio
Scott began his broadcasting career in 1960 as a high school senior in Binghamton, New York, where he discovered his passion for radio. After honing his skills and gaining experience in various markets, Scott made his debut on Cincinnati’s airwaves on March 23, 1968, hosting mornings on WSAI-AM 1360 from 6-9 a.m. His smooth delivery, engaging personality, and ability to connect with listeners quickly made him a favorite among Cincinnati radio fans. In 1972, Scott was lured to New York’s WNBC radio, NBC’s flagship station, but his heart remained in Cincinnati, and he returned to WSAI after a year. Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, Scott continued to entertain and inform listeners on various Cincinnati radio stations, building a loyal following and cementing his status as a local legend.
In 1984, Scott made the move to WLW, Cincinnati’s iconic 50,000-watt clear-channel radio station. His morning show on WLW became a must-listen for Cincinnatians, and his popularity only grew over the years. Scott’s ability to discuss a wide range of topics, from sports and politics to entertainment and local news, kept his listeners engaged and coming back for more. He was known for his quick wit, infectious laugh, and genuine interest in the lives of his listeners. Throughout his career, Scott was recognized for his excellence in radio, receiving the prestigious Marconi Award for large market radio personality of the year in 2002. Despite his success, he remained humble and true to his roots, refusing to use his real name, James Boland, and insisting that “Jim Scott” was his identity for his entire broadcasting career.
Dedication to the Cincinnati Community
Scott was not just a radio personality; he was a beloved figure in the Cincinnati community. He used his platform to publicize local events and was often spotted volunteering himself, whether ringing the bell for the Salvation Army’s red kettle campaign or emceeing United Way fundraisers. Scott’s dedication to the community extended beyond his radio work, as he actively participated in various charitable organizations and events throughout the city. His genuine care for the well-being of his fellow Cincinnatians was evident in his actions, and he inspired others to give back and make a difference in their own way.
In 1996 and 2002, Scott was chosen to be a torch-bearer of the Olympic flame as it passed through the region on its way to the Olympic games. This honor was a testament to his impact on the community and the respect he had earned from his fellow citizens. Scott’s dedication to the community also extended to his personal life. He was a fixture in the Reds Opening Day Parade, marching in the event for the past 50 years and considering it his “favorite day of the year”. Scott’s love for the Reds and his enthusiasm for the parade were infectious, and he always made sure to greet fans and take photos with them. His wife, Donna, shared that he had served as the honorary grand marshal of the 2024 Reds Opening Day Parade, a role he cherished and one that allowed him to connect with the community he loved so dearly.
Battling ALS with Courage and Compassion
In August 2023, Scott announced on Facebook that he had been diagnosed with ALS, also known as “Lou Gehrig’s disease”. He shared that he had noticed a weakness in his left arm, hand, and leg, the same areas that were affected when he contracted polio in 1954 at the age of 12. Despite the devastating diagnosis, Scott remained determined to use his voice and popularity to raise money and awareness for the fight against ALS. He continued to host his morning show on WLW, bringing his signature positivity and humor to the airwaves even as his health declined.
Scott’s courage and resilience in the face of adversity inspired many, and he used his platform to encourage others to support ALS research and to live life to the fullest. He shared updates on his condition with his listeners, always maintaining a positive attitude and expressing gratitude for the love and support he received from the community. Scott’s wife, Donna, was by his side throughout his battle with ALS, providing unwavering support and love. In a touching tribute, Donna shared that Scott “crossed over and is in the loving, welcoming embrace of his mom and dad, mine, his sister and so many friends” after his passing.
Mo Egger, an ESPN 1530 radio host who worked with Scott at WLW, described him as “just a good man” and said that people would often ask if he was really as nice as he seemed. Scott’s kindness, compassion, and genuine concern for others were evident in every aspect of his life, both on and off the air. He was a mentor to many young broadcasters, sharing his knowledge and experience while also offering guidance and support. Scott’s legacy as a kind, compassionate, and dedicated member of the Cincinnati community will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations of radio personalities and community leaders alike.
