Longtime WLOS news anchor Jay Siltzer retiring at end of May
Longtime news anchor and former meteorologist Jay Siltzer announced his retirement from WLOS on the morning broadcast of May 2.
Siltzer, who lives in Hendersonville, joined WLOS in 1999. This year was his 24th year at WLOS and his 30th year in the news business.
"I'm retiring from WLOS at the end of this month," he said in the May 2 morning broadcast that was titled "Jay's Special Announcement." "Thank you... I mean that... for welcoming me into your homes and workplaces first as a reporter, then as a meteorologist and finally as a news anchor. It has been a privilege I have never taken lightly. More importantly, I appreciate your kindness during the best and worst times of my life, especially during the death of my wife, followed by the passing of my son."
He continued by saying his announcement begs the question of why he is retiring.
"Quite honestly, I'm tired. Getting up at 2 a.m. the past 18 years has taken its toll on me physically. I love this station and my co-workers, but I need some sleep and a normal schedule."
This fall he said he'll begin teaching history and doing some PR work.
"Change in life is inevitable. I hope you will be as gracious to my successor as you have been to me. I trust I'll see you around right here in the mountains. Thank you," he said.
For the past several years, Siltzer has co-anchored News 13 This Morning and also News 13 at Noon. He is a regular contributor to the segment called Carolina Kitchen.
"He's one of the toughest guys I know," said former WLOS sports anchor Stan Pamfilis. "Jay overcame numerous obstacles and always kept moving forward with positive energy. I marvel at his courage. He did great work and got through everything with a smile and a pleasant demeanor. He's a great guy."
Siltzer completed the Broadcast Meteorology Program at Mississippi State University. He is a member of the American Meteorological Society and holds the AMS Seal of Approval for Television and the AMS Seal of Approval for Radio. According to WLOS.com, friends call him "Stormy" because outdoor conditions are often at their worst when he fills in at the weather desk.
Since joining WLOS, Siltzer has followed the oldest-ever North Carolina voter to the polls, covered the capture of Eric Rudolph and also witnessed the execution of a death-row inmate. According to WLOS.com, when he's not working, he often shares his experience as a cancer survivor with school, civic and church groups.
He is also an active parishioner at Immaculata Catholic Church in Hendersonville.
Dean Hensley is the news editor for the Hendersonville Times-News. Email him with tips, questions and comments at DHensley@gannett.com. Please help support this kind of local journalism with a subscription to the Hendersonville Times-News.
This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: Longtime WLOS news anchor Jay Siltzer retiring at end of May
