WEST MICHIGAN, Longtime radio personality Reese Rickards, best known as one-half of the iconic “Neal and Reese in the Morning” show on B-93, has passed away. He died Tuesday morning, February 24, 2026, following a sudden illness.
Rickards, alongside his longtime friend and on-air partner Neal Dionne, entertained country music fans across West Michigan for more than two decades. Together, the pair helped launch the station and shaped its identity, becoming a staple of morning radio for a generation of listeners.
B-93 Program Director Dave Taft shared news of Rickards’ passing in a tribute posted to the station’s Facebook page. Taft said Dionne contacted him on February 23 to report that Rickards had fallen ill and that his condition was serious. A follow-up call the next morning confirmed that Rickards had died.
In his tribute, Taft reflected on Rickards’ passion for broadcasting and dedication to his work.
“When I first started at B-93, Reese would be the first person I would see each morning,” Taft wrote. “He’d come in with an excitement and passion you would be hard pressed to find among anyone who had to be to work by 4 in the morning. He was usually up hours before that as he loved what he did for a living.”
Rickards was described as a committed news professional who valued storytelling. He consistently worked to provide timely updates, sought distinctive angles, and balanced serious reporting with lighthearted moments. While focused on journalistic standards, he was also known for bringing humor to the airwaves — a quality that resonated with listeners.
Longtime fans may remember his playful “10-Foot Tall Chicken Day” parade broadcasts from Byron Center or the creative “B-93 Bomb Shelter” segments, where he produced an echo effect by placing a trash can over his head. These moments became memorable highlights of the station’s history and reflected his imaginative approach to radio.
“Reese, and morning show partner Neal Dionne, started this radio station,” Taft wrote. “For 20 some years they set the standard for the rest of us to follow. The best advice I remember was that ‘this isn’t rocket science, it’s radio. Just have stupid fun.’”
Dionne also shared a tribute, reflecting on their three decades together in the studio.
“I lost an old friend today. We shared a radio studio for 30 years,” Dionne wrote. “Reese Rickards passed away this morning with his lovely wife Kim at his side. He will be remembered as a relentless news hound, creative talent and a good man.”
He concluded his message with a personal note: “Woodrow, we had us a time.”
Rickards’ contributions extended beyond daily broadcasts. He played an active role in signature station events such as Birthday Bash celebrations and community initiatives including the B-93 Roofsit for Kids and the “93 Town” caravans. Colleagues said he provided mentorship, leadership, and encouragement to those who worked alongside him.
Listeners across West Michigan are remembering not only a broadcaster, but a familiar voice who was part of their morning routines for decades.
Rickards is survived by his wife, Kim, and his family. Friends and colleagues have asked the community to keep them in their thoughts during this time.
For many listeners, Reese Rickards’ voice defined their mornings. His legacy of dedication, creativity, and connection with the audience continues to be recognized by the community he served.
