CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — Chicago is mourning the reported death of Judy Markey, the longtime radio personality, writer, columnist and novelist whose distinctive humor and conversational style made her a familiar voice to generations of listeners.

Markey was 82. News of her passing was announced during the morning broadcast of The Bob Sirott Show, prompting an outpouring of memories from people who knew her through Chicago radio, writing and personal friendships.

Her career was marked by an unusual ability to turn everyday observations into memorable stories. Whether behind a microphone or working with words on the page, Markey brought a sharp wit, warmth and unmistakable personality to her work.

A Distinctive Voice on Chicago Radio

Judy Markey became part of the fabric of Chicago radio during a career that connected her with some of the city’s best-known broadcasting personalities.

Her partnership with Kathy O’Malley became particularly memorable. The two hosted a popular midday program on WGN Radio beginning in 1989, at a time when women were still relatively uncommon as the central voices of major radio talk programs.

Their chemistry, humor and willingness to approach ordinary subjects from an entertaining perspective helped the program develop a devoted audience.

For many Chicago listeners, Markey’s voice became associated with the personality and character of WGN during one of the station’s most recognizable eras.

Her Humor Extended Beyond Radio

Radio was only one part of Markey’s creative life.

She also worked as a columnist and novelist, giving her another outlet for the observations and humor that had made her popular on the air.

Her writing reflected the same qualities listeners recognized from her broadcasting: curiosity, wit, personality and an ability to find something amusing or meaningful in everyday life.

She had a particular appreciation for books, flowers, food, wine and the small pleasures that make ordinary days memorable.

Remembered for Her Personality

People who knew Markey often remembered her as much for her personality as for her professional accomplishments.

She had a distinctive way of looking at the world and an ability to make people laugh through stories about experiences that might otherwise have seemed completely ordinary.

That quality helped her establish a connection with audiences that went beyond the traditional relationship between broadcaster and listener.

For many people, hearing Judy Markey on the radio felt like listening to someone they knew.

A Career Preserved in Chicago Radio History

Markey’s place in Chicago broadcasting history has also been preserved through archival collections.

Northwestern University Libraries’ WGN Radio archive includes recordings associated with Markey, reflecting the importance of her work to the station’s long broadcasting history.

Her name appears alongside other influential Chicago radio figures, underscoring the lasting place she holds in the city’s media history.

Final Years

According to the death announcement carried by the original report, Markey was diagnosed with a neurological disorder in 2024.

The illness reportedly progressed and increasingly affected her physical health. She had previously spoken publicly about medical aid in dying and ultimately chose that option.

The report states that she traveled to Switzerland, where she died peacefully with members of her family beside her.

Because these are sensitive medical and end-of-life details, the family’s own statements should remain the primary reference for any further information.

Friends Gathered to Say Goodbye

In the period before her death, Markey’s longtime friends from the Chicago radio community reportedly gathered with her for an evening of memories, laughter and tears.

The gathering provided an opportunity for people who had shared years of radio work and friendship to spend time together and say goodbye.

For those who attended, the evening became a final celebration of the relationships Markey had built throughout her life.

A Legacy of Laughter and Storytelling

Judy Markey leaves behind a legacy that reaches across Chicago broadcasting and writing.

Her contribution was not simply measured by the programs she hosted or the words she wrote. It was also found in the way she made people feel — entertained, understood and connected.

Listeners who grew up hearing her on WGN will remember the sound of her voice and the humor that accompanied it. Readers will remember her observations and storytelling.

Friends and colleagues will remember the woman behind the microphone: someone whose personality was impossible to separate from the work she loved.

Family and Memorial

Markey is survived by her family, friends and many people whose lives she touched through her professional and personal relationships.

A private memorial service for family and close friends is expected to provide an opportunity to remember her life and career.

Those who knew Judy are also being encouraged to share their own memories and stories of her.

For Chicago radio listeners, her passing marks the loss of a distinctive voice from an important era of local broadcasting.

Disclaimer

This obituary is based on publicly available information and the death announcement referenced above. Some personal, medical and family details may not have been independently confirmed and may be updated as additional information is released. Funeral and memorial arrangements should be confirmed through the family. The family’s privacy should be respected during this time of mourning.