Former Detroit Personality Johnny Williams Dies from COVID-19 Complications

Johnny Williams in early ’70s publicity photo.

The MAB has learned that former CKLW-AM/WNIC-FM air personality Johnny Williams passed away April 16 due to complications from COVID-19.

Williams, whose real name was Tom DeAngelo, was on air at CKLW during its “Big 8” Top 40 days from 1968 through 1983.  In 1985, he took over hosting duties from Alan Almond for WNIC-FM’s “Pillow Talk” show.  He later worked at XM Radio.  Williams was 78.