Lannis Yeary Obituary

Lannis David Yeary January 15, 1948 - May 27, 2024

KINGSPORT - David Lannis Yeary, born in January 1948, sought a career in radio early in life. He focused on radio communications in his post high school education. The opportunity was short-lived as he returned to Surgoinsville, TN to operate the family farm due to his father's illness. After his father recovered, Lannis began his work life with various local radio positions.

His first entrepreneurial adventure began in Harriman, Tennessee as a partner in a country radio station. This soon failed but the disappointment was offset by the birth of his two children, Amy and Bryan. Most would have given up on the dream of owning and operating a local business. But the mistakes afforded to him in this chapter of life proved more valuable than any degree.

With great determination and certainty, he began WSPC in Castlewood Virginia in 1981 with a loan from his father-in-law. Within eight years, the thriving business gave birth to an FM station in Lebanon, VA: WXLZ.

With great care for the community, Lannis participated in growing his business as well as growing our little portion of Southwest Virginia. Through economic ups and downs, WXLZ has always sought to connect people through a shared love of music and a common goal of creating a strong community. This reflects the attitude of the owner.

Lannis passed on May 27th of 2024, Memorial Day. This was fitting because he lost a beloved older brother in Vietnam and often spent this special day remembering him. In addition to the legacy of local radio, he also leaves wonderful memories implanted in the hearts and minds of three grandchildren: Autumn Faye Holmes, Dane and Cade Yeary.

We invite you to join us on WXLZ (107.3 on your FM dial) to remember Lannis at noon on August 10 and 11 with a special tribute of story and song.