Cincinnati is in mourning after the passing of John Lomax, a beloved figure and retired Good Morning Cincinnati anchor for WKRC-TV. Lomax, who died Tuesday at the age of 72, is remembered by colleagues, both past and present, as the very “heart and soul” of Channel 12 news, and a generous mentor affectionately known as “The Godfather” of the newsroom. His four-decade career in Cincinnati touched countless lives, both on and off the screen.
A Legacy Forged at WKRC-TV: “The Heart and Soul” of Cincinnati News
Tributes poured in immediately after the news of John Lomax’s death broke. Former news anchor Rob Braun expressed his deep respect on Facebook, stating, “There was not a nicer, more kind, or more talented man in television.” This sentiment was echoed by current anchor Paula Toti, who somberly announced on Tuesday’s 11 p.m. news, “For 40 years, he was the heart and soul of this television station because he so freely shared his heart and soul with all of us, and all of you.”
John Gumm, chief meteorologist for WKRC-TV, fondly recalled Lomax’s steadying influence on the morning show. “He was the glue that held that morning show together for so many years – just a steady presence, with his advice, with his wisdom that he offered,” Gumm shared. Having worked alongside Lomax before his own promotion to chief meteorologist, Gumm understood firsthand the value of Lomax’s experience and guidance.
From Knoxville to Cincinnati: A Career Rooted in Community
A Knoxville, Tennessee native, John Lomax’s journey to becoming a Cincinnati television fixture began when WKRC-TV recruited him from his hometown station in 1983. Initially tasked with covering Northern Kentucky, Lomax admitted in a 2022 interview that he saw Cincinnati as a stepping stone. “[I came here thinking this station was a steppingstone to my next job, that I’d head somewhere else in the country after a few years,” he explained. However, Cincinnati had other plans for Lomax. “[I fell in love the place and never really wanted to leave,” he confessed, a testament to the city’s charm and the strong connections he forged there.
His commitment to Cincinnati was unwavering. For 32 years, John Lomax greeted viewers each morning as the anchor of Good Morning Cincinnati, becoming a familiar and comforting presence in their homes. His retirement in 2022 marked the end of an era for WKRC-TV and the city itself.
Remembering John Lomax: More Than Just an Anchor
Beyond his professional achievements, John Lomax was deeply admired for his personal qualities. Retired anchor Kit Andrews emphasized Lomax’s approachability and kindness: “He always had time for everyone. Always a kind word. John Lomax is gone and I (along with countless others) am bereft . . . Words can’t fully express the loss of this fine man.”
Bob Herzog, who co-anchored Good Morning Cincinnati with Lomax for 16 years, spoke emotionally about Lomax’s profound impact on his life. “He was a like a second dad to me. When I lost my father, I can remember turning to John about things I’d turn to my dad about,” Herzog shared on Tuesday’s newscast. Herzog further elaborated on the depth of their relationship when Lomax retired, saying, “It’s very difficult to express just how much John means to me… I’m an infinitely better broadcaster because of him but, more importantly, I’m a better person. He’s a mentor. A friend. After losing my dad in 2014, he became a special source of wisdom that I needed in my life. He’s the best, man.”
Lomax’s influence extended throughout the WKRC-TV newsroom, earning him the moniker “The Godfather.” He mentored younger journalists, offering guidance both professionally and personally. His early career at Channel 12 saw him quickly become a versatile anchor, even filling in as a weekend sports anchor and eventually landing the permanent co-anchor role on Good Morning Cincinnati in 1990. He was part of a wave of talented journalists hired under Nick Clooney, who helped WKRC-TV achieve top ratings in Cincinnati news.
A Community Pillar: John Lomax and Cincinnati
John Lomax was more than just a news anchor; he was an active participant in the Cincinnati community. He was a familiar face at events like the Opening Day parade, where he enthusiastically interacted with the crowds and captured memories with his camera.
“He was so universally loved in this city,” John Gumm observed, highlighting Lomax’s widespread popularity and genuine connection with Cincinnati residents. Paula Toti added, “At the Opening Day parade, he would stop every bit along the way and take a selfie or a picture with someone,” illustrating Lomax’s warm and engaging personality. His presence at the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League’s Nuxy Bash celebrity softball game and other local events further demonstrated his commitment to the city he called home.
Lomax’s interests extended beyond news and community events. He had a passion for art and automobiles, reflecting a well-rounded individual who appreciated life’s diverse offerings.
A Final Sign-off: “Take Care”
In his retirement, John Lomax reflected on his long career, which began at the young age of 15. “Essentially I’ve been getting a pay check since I was 15. It will be odd at 70 to not get one,” he remarked, showcasing his strong work ethic and down-to-earth perspective.
The Lomax family, in their social media announcement, shared that funeral services are not planned, honoring John’s wishes for alternative arrangements. WKRC-TV concluded its Tuesday night newscasts with a replay of John Lomax’s Good Morning Cincinnati retirement farewell from April 2022, a poignant reminder of his daily sign-off to Cincinnati: “I will say now, as I have said so many times in my thousands of day here, thanks for watching and take care.” John Lomax’s legacy in Cincinnati will undoubtedly endure, remembered for his kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the community he served for four decades.
